Regular exams and checkups at Providence South Animal Hospital are an essential part of preventive veterinary care for cats and dogs in Waxhaw.
Routine Exams for Cats & Dogs
Regular veterinary exams, along with routine vaccinations, parasite prevention and good nutrition, are the best way to give your pet a chance at good long term health.
By visiting the vet once or twice a year, we can help prevent health problems from developing in your pet, and catch any that are already developing in their earliest, most treatable stages.
Vaccinations & Parasite Prevention
During your pet's routine exam, the vet will also determine whether they are due for any of their routine vaccinations, or if they require preventive care such a parasite prevention.
Care For Puppies & Kittens
Puppy and kitten visits can help get new pets off to a healthy start. Your visit will include a complete physical examination where we will look for any signs of illness and make sure that your new pet is in good health.
We will review your pet’s vaccine and deworming schedule and discuss the best way to manage your pet’s health. Our goal is to give you the best advice for your puppy or kitten.
Care For Geriatric Pets
We give your senior pets special attention for age-related issues, like arthritis or vision loss. Additional laboratory tests will also help your vet assess your pet’s overall health.
A Thorough Exam of Your Pet
Each checkup at Providence South Animal Hospital includes a complete physical exam, routine vaccinations, and blood and urine screening.
During the physical exam, your veterinarian will inspect all aspects of your pet's physical state to assess their overall health.
This will include a close examination of each of the following areas:
General Condition
We will start by looking at your pet's body condition and demeanor: how they walk and stand, whether they are bright and alert, and whether they have the appropriate body weight.
Coat & Skin
We will also look at the coat and skin for any problems, such as dryness or oiliness, dandruff, excessive shedding, lumps, bumps or abnormal hair loss.
Face & Head
The eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for any discharge, abnormalities or growths, and the mouth for signs of oral health problems like plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
We will check the heart and pulse to identify any abnormality in heart rate and rhythm, or blood pressure issues. We will also listen to the lungs for evidence of abnormal breathing.
The lymph nodes will be assessed for swelling or pain, and the abdomen to to ensure that the bladder, kidneys, liver, intestines, spleen and stomach are normal, and to see if there is any evidence of discomfort.