The first step in proper diagnostics is a good thorough history and full physical exam. At Richview Animal Hospital in Etobicoke, our veterinary staff is specially trained in performing comprehensive diagnostic testing for dogs and cats.
During an annual physical exam, our Etobicoke vets perform a comprehensive nose to tail examination. Your pet’s eyes, ears, skin, coat, lungs, abdomen and heart are checked. A comprehensive physical exam gives our veterinarian a great deal of useful information.
The findings can help determine if further investigation is required. In addition, our vets will ask specific questions about your pet’s behavior during an exam, such as:
Have there been any changes in eating habits?
Has your pet exhibited non-typical behaviors?
We use these types of questions as diagnostic tools to assess your pet’s health. It’s also the ideal time for pet owners to ask questions of their own.
What to Expect During an Annual Pet Exam
During your pet's physical examination, our vet may recommend diagnostic blood testing. Typically, a series of blood tests are taken to assess the function of your pet’s body systems and internal organs. Blood tests provide vital information that vets can't feel or see. These tests give information about any changes that are occurring internally. Blood tests also allow for early detection of illnesses and diseases as well as provide us the ability to trend any changes. With early detection and treatment, patient outcome is much better.
A stool sample is also taken for analysis during an annual pet exam to test for intestinal parasites. Even indoor pets can get intestinal parasites from contact with mice and mosquitoes. If your pet tests positive for parasites, the vet will administer medication.
Our vets may also perform viral testing for pets during an exam. This is especially important for cats that go outdoors as well as new cats to a household. Generally, a feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia (FeLV) test are done. These diseases can be transmitted through cat bites and bodily fluids, which can be fatal.
During an annual pet exam, our Etobicoke vet will also assess your pet’s dental health. It’s not uncommon for both cats and dogs to have periodontal disease by three years of age. Our vet will exam your pet’s gums and teeth. If dental treatment is required, our veterinary staff will let you know what type of dental treatment is required to restore or maintain optimal dental health.
We also use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and facilities to identify a variety of ailments quickly and accurately. These include:
- Digital X-ray services
- Dental X-rays
- Remote access to radiologist and cardiologist
- Outsourced laboratory
This wealth of resources is especially critical when your pet is suffering a medical emergency that requires timely diagnosis.
Our Etobicoke vet's At Richview Animal Hospital in Etobicoke, ON, offer pet wellness exams. As a matter of fact, we recommend that you have your pet examined at least once a year. If it’s time for your pet’s annual exam, call us at (416) 245-8805 to schedule an appointment. Great pet care begins at Richview Animal Hospital.
