The various tests that make up the Annual & Comprehensive health screens are necessary to get a complete picture of your pet’s health. With these tests we can establish a “baseline” of health for your pet, and this baseline can be compared to future test results to determine if a particular level is normal for your pet, or if it may indicate a health problem. Sometimes, during the course of Annual & Comprehensive health screens, we will find results that may indicate a problem, but many health problems, if caught early, have a better chance of successful treatment.
Your Veterinarian Will Perform:
A Physical Exam –
Your pet’s teeth, abdomen, eyes & ears, body and haircoat will be examined for any abnormalities. Be sure to tell your doctor about anything you may have noticed, like lumps, bad breath, or a dulling of haircoat.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) –
Heart disease is also a common ailment in pets and this test can measure the electrical activity in your pet’s heart.
Heartworm Test –
This is a blood test to check for the existence of heartworms. Early detection and treatment of this disease are essential.
Fecal Floatation –
This test checks for the presence of parasites in your pet’s intestinal tract. Their presence can rob your pets body of nutrition, but they can be eliminated with medication if found.
Coccidioidomycosis & Ehrlichiosis –
Coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever) and Ehrlichiosis (Tick Fever) are two potentially deadly diseases here in Arizona. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve treatment and recovery time.
FELV/FIV –
Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus are vital diseases that can be contagious to other cats. Testing of all cats exposed to unknown cats and all new cats is highly recommended.
Complete Urinalysis -
Diabetes and kidneys disease can be detected through urinalysis. Bacteria in the urine may also indicate an infection.
Nutritional Consultation –
Your pet’s nutritional requirements change throughout life. The lab tests that are part of the Annual & Comprehensive health screens can reveal a need for diet or modification, including a therapeutic diet. Therapeutic diets are designed for pets with decreased kidney function, liver function, heart disease or other conditions. Even if your pet is determined to be in relatively normal health, a diet change may be indicated simply because of processes that occur as a result of normal aging.