Routine and preventative care are the foundations for long and healthy lives for our pets. At Animal Hospital of Georgetown, we are committed to giving each and every pet a comprehensive, yearly physical examination, and to discussing any developing issues and age or breed-related concerns before they become a problem. We will evaluate your pet’s risks, parasite control strategy, and vaccination needs, then give you advice for any concerns you may have.
One year in a dog or cat’s life is about like 5-8 years of a person’s life. So much can change in just one year, and staying on top of developing health concerns can make a huge difference in a furry friend’s longevity and happiness. In wellness exams, we thoroughly examine your whole pet. Importantly, this is your opportunity to let us know anything concerning, so we can help figure out if there is a problem that needs attention, and you can ask us anything about pet! We see ourselves as partners with you in maximizing your pet’s health!
As your dog ages past about 6-7 years (depending on breed), or your cat ages past 8-9 years of age, they should be considered “senior” pets. Our pets are living longer and longer, and just like us, they may develop some creaks, pops, or internal problems as time goes on. Many of these conditions are more manageable than you my realize!
At a senior pet’s exam, your vet will be testing mobility of the legs, listening for problems in the heart or lungs, and discussing common aging problems that you may be seeing. We have many options for controlling arthritis, heart or endocrine disease, incontinence, and other issues that are common for aging pets. Getting older doesn’t have to be hard! We’ll help you find the right options for keeping your pet happy and healthy.
Many people will opt to have screening bloodwork done at a senior wellness visit, in order to get early indication of liver, kidney, or other diseases. Just ask us about screening bloodwork if you are interested, and we will help you decide if it’s best for you.
Vaccination against deadly and serious illness gives our pets the opportunity to live long, healthy lives. There are a number of “core” vaccines which almost all pets should receive, and optional “non-core” vaccines which are given to pets at risk for the diseases. Rabies vaccination is legally required for all dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens receive vaccines starting at 6-8 weeks of age, and continuing for a few months.
Adults will receive vaccines from every 6 months to every 3 years, depending on the vaccine and the pet’s risks. Your vet will advise you about what vaccines your pet needs. Click here to learn more about pet vaccinations at Animal Hospital of Georgetown.
Yearly screening for common parasites is a very important part of a wellness plan. At some point in their lives, most pets will come into contact with parasites such as fleas, mosquitoes, heartworms, intestinal worms, and ticks. Each of these poses unique threats to our animals, and a comprehensive plan is crucial to your animal companion’s health and happiness.
At your wellness exam, expect blood and fecal tests, as needed, to ensure your pets are free of parasitic infections. If you can, bring a fresh stool sample to the exam for a more comfortable pet experience – your pets will thank you!
Microchips help lost pets get home safe. No matter how careful we are, there is always a chance that a pet gets loose. Collars and tags are only effective if they stay on the pet until he or she is found, but a microchip is inserted under the skin, staying with your pet no matter what happens. They are detected by shelters, animal control officers, and veterinarians, and provide us a method to find you so we can get your pet home quickly. It is cost-effective, quick to implant, and the chips usually last a lifetime.
We strongly recommend that every pet have a microchip – it’s an easy way to ensure lost pets have the best chance to get home to their families. Click here to read more about microchipping at Animal Hospital of Georgetown.
After hours care for your furry companion