Southside Vet Surgery, providing health checks for your pets.

On average, dogs and cats age five to eight times faster than humans. By the age of 2, most pets have already reached adulthood. At age 4, many are entering middle age and the time they are 7, many pets are entering their senior years. Because pets age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of heart disease, arthritis, kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and other serious conditions all increase with age. Early detection is important and annual health checks can help us to diagnose and treat problems early, or even prevent problems occurring altogether, enabling the best possible outcome for your pet. Annual health checks also offer you a great opportunity to ask us about nutrition, behaviour or any other topics.

The Health Check List For Dogs and Cats

Regular annual health checks will include a physical examination, vaccinations, a parasite and heart check, dental health check and sometimes a blood and urine test. For dogs aged 7 years and above, some additional exams might include an osteoarthritis check, a chest radiograph and a thyroid check. For cats aged 7 years above, additional exams might include a kidney disease screen, blood pressure check, osteoarthritis check and thyroid check.