Health Checks
Health Checks at VetCare Tauranga
Remember, pets age at a considerably faster rate than humans, approximately 7 pet years to one of ours. Hence if you decide to bring your pet in just once every 2-3 years it is equivalent to approximately 14-21 years between visits. Much can happen during this time, so we encourage annual health checks for all our patients. The checks are good value; they allow early detection of problems your pet cannot communicate to you and , in many other cases, they allow us to reassure you that all is well.
By the time we have completed the vaccination check or annual health check, a lot of ground has been covered and you can be happy that your pet is in good shape.
Teeth & Gums
- Loose/rotten/broken teeth gums
- Tartar
- Tumours
Ears
- Fly bite dermatitis
- Infection
- Parasites e.g. ear mites
- Deafness
Eyes
- Cataracts
- Eyelid problems
- Glaucoma
- Ulcers
Skin
- Allergies
- Cancer
- Infection/inflammation
- Parasites: fleas, mites
Glands
- Lymph nodes not swollen
- Mammary gland cancer
- Prostate not enlarged
- Testicles same size
Body Condition
- Weight loss or gain since previous visit
Heart
- Murmurs
- Rhythm
- Rate
- Sound volume
Lungs
- Crackles or wheezes
- Chest not dull on percussion
Temperature
- Elevated may mean an infection or inflammation or excitement
Circulation
- Gums good colour – not anaemic or bleeding
- Refill time good
- Sound volume
Urine Analysis
Encouraged in older patients
- No blood
- No sugar (i.e. diabetes)
- Concentration normal
Nails
- Healthy nails and nail-beds
- Nails not too long
Abdomen
- Kidneys, liver, stomach, spleen
- Urinary bladder, bowel – normal size/shape/positions.
Joints
- Arthritis
- Cruciate ligaments
- Patella (kneecaps)
Anal Glands
- Not blocked
