Routine veterinary exams and checkups are an essential part of preventive health care at Westport Veterinary Associates in Fairfield County.
Veterinary Exams for Cats & Dogs
Together with routine vaccinations and parasite prevention and good nutrition, regular exams give your pet the best chance at good long term health.
Visiting the vet once or twice a year allows us to prevent health problems from developing in your pet, or to catch them in their earliest and most treatable stages.
Each checkup at Westport Veterinary Associates includes a complete physical exam, routine vaccinations, as well as blood and urine screening.
The Exam: What to Expect
During a routine exam, the vet will inspect all aspects of your pet's physical state to assess their overall health. This includes:
General Condition
We will start by looking at your pet's body condition and demeanor: how your pet walks and stands, whether they are bright and alert, and whether they have the appropriate body weight.
Coat & Skin
We will also look at your pet's 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 will be examined for signs of oral health problems like plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
We will check your pet's heart and pulse to identify any abnormality in heart rate and rhythm, or blood pressure issues, as well as listening to the lungs for evidence of abnormal breathing.
The lymph nodes will be assessed for swelling or pain, and the abdomen will be examined to ensure that the bladder, kidneys, liver, intestines, spleen and stomach are normal, and to see if there is any evidence of discomfort.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During the exam, the vet will also determine whether your pet is for any of their routine vaccinations, or if they require preventive care such a parasite prevention.
Puppies & Kittens
Puppy and kitten visits offer a unique opportunity to get you and your new pet off on the right paw!
Your puppy or kitten visit will include a thorough physical examination where we will look for any signs of illness and make sure that your new pet is in good health.
Our goal is giving you the best advice for your puppy or kitten. We will review your pet’s vaccine and deworming schedule and discuss the best way to manage your new pet’s health.
Geriatric Pet Care
Thanks in large part to advances in medical knowledge, new therapies and better nutrition, today's senior pets are living longer than ever.
At Westport Veterinary Associates, senior pets receive special attention for age-related issues, like arthritis or vision loss. Additional laboratory tests will also help your vet assess your senior pet’s overall health.