The Importance of Pet Wellness Care and Immunizations
Just like their human counterparts, pets should have regular wellness checkups and sometimes need an immunization. Even if you have a younger pet who seems perfectly healthy, wellness care exams can detect subtle changes that could eventually become major issues. This can include weight fluctuations, changes in the teeth or gums, and behavioral changes.
At Callahan Drive Animal Hospital in Knoxville, TN, we provide both routine wellness care and emergency treatment for pets. Whether you have a dog, cat, reptile, or small exotic animal at home, preventive veterinary care is one of the best ways to maintain your pet's health.
Pet Wellness Care Visits
When you bring your pet into Callahan Drive Animal Hospital for a wellness check, you can expect personalized and friendly, yet professional, care. The main goal of the appointment is to monitor your pet's overall health and diagnose any potential medical conditions, as well as determine a proper course of treatment if necessary.
Your pet will receive a comprehensive physical exam, in which the vet will check weight, breathing patterns, gums and teeth, and the condition of the muscles and coat or skin. The veterinarian will observe your pet walking around the room and ask you to play with him or her to watch the ease of movement and note your pet's behavior. You may also be asked to bring in a stool sample to be tested for parasites.
You will have the opportunity to discuss any specific concerns you have about your pet with the veterinarian. He or she will also ask about your pet's lifestyle, habits, and nutrition. The vet will make recommendations on preventive treatments including flea and tick control, heartworm and roundworm medications, dental care, skin or coat care, and immunization schedules.
Pet immunizations
All pets need vaccinations to protect them from infectious diseases. Your veterinarian can give you guidance as to the best immunization schedule for your pet, and may recommend more or fewer, depending on your pet's lifestyle and health condition. Common pet vaccines include:
- Rabies
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Bordetella
- Leptospirosis
Call Callahan Drive Animal Hospital Today!
Callahan Drive Animal Hospital recommends annual wellness exams for most pets. For puppies and senior pets, or those with ongoing medical conditions, scheduling an exam every six months is recommended. Our Knoxville, TN, veterinarians and staff value relationships and face-to-face communications and treat every client (including pets!) like family. We prioritize compassionate care and client education to give you the tools you need to help maintain your pet's health at home. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!