The Vets Examination What You Should Know Before Visiting Your Veterinarian
Nobody
likes surprises,
so it's always nice
to know what
to expect when you
take your pet
to the veterinarian.
A good physical
exam usually begins by weighing
and recording so that
a continuing record
can be formed.
An increase or decrease
in weight can
indicate a problem. Next,
the temperature is taken, usually
rectally with a
normal temperature
of 101 to 102.5 degrees
for both
dogs and cats.
Coat
and skin are examined next
as poor hair coat or
skin can indicate a poor diet or dermatological infection.
Coat should be shiny,
not brittle
and coarse,
and the skin, clean
and not greasy. While handling
your pet,
the bones, muscles,
and joints,
nails, feet,
and lymph
nodes are checked
for any abnormalities. The chest, heart,
and lungs are
examined with a stethoscope,
along with
the rate and nature of respiration.
At
the head, both ears are examined
deep into the
ear canal
for infections. The visible eye structure and lids are examined and the interior of the eye is checked
for cataract formation, and
an examination of the mouth and
throat for infected gums,
loose teeth, tartar buildup on the
teeth and
any damage or
swelling in the throat.
Lastly, at the
rear, the anus,
anal glands, prepuce/penis or
vcalva are checked for any abnormalities, and the anal
glands cleaned if
they are
compacted. During the examination the vet
will usually ask the name of your pet's food and any other
treats or vitamin supplements, along with any medication you
may have
given your pet.
A fecal sample will be taken for examination to
check for intestinal parasites, such
as hookworm and
roundworm, and a blood
test may be recommended if heartworm is suspected.
No checkup would be complete without a
flea and tick prevention/treatment with a choice
as to who will administer the
treatment, you or the vet. As you can see,the vets examination is one of the most important things you can do for your pet. Whatever you do, do not ever skimp
out on your pets care. While the
exam may sound involved and complicated, the entire
process usually only takes about 30
minutes and guarantees your pet a healthier happier life.
Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long
time. Recently they formed Joncopets.com. On the site,
customers can
read articles about anything pets as well as
shop for the latest pet supplies, dog collars and
more for their best friend.
Feel free to check out the site at
http://www.joncopets.com