Pets, on average, age five to eight times faster than humans. By age two, most pets have already reached adulthood. At age four, many are entering middle age. By age seven, many dogs, particularly larger breeds, are entering their senior years.
Because pets age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of cancer, diabetes, obesity,arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age.
Today’s pets are living longer than ever, and chances are that many may experience a potentially serious illness during their lifetime. Annual health checks can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat or even prevent problems before they become life-threatening.
They’re also a great opportunity to ask us about nutrition, behaviour or any other issues.
Blood screening is also a useful tool combined with health examinations as these screens can help to identify the early stages of some conditions so that we can prevent or at least slow down their progression. They also serve as a way of tracking trends in your animals health as they get older.
Call us today to book a health check for your pet with one of our vets. Don't hesitate to discuss the possibility of including a blood test as part of your pet's health asssessment.
HEALTH CHECK LIST
The most important annual health screenings for dogs and cats:
Adult dogs and cats (1-6 years) should have the following, at the very least as well as their annual physical examinations:
Additional exams for senior dogs (7+ years) - we recommend examinations be performed every 6 months.
Additional exams for senior cats (7+ years) - we recommend examinations be performed every 6 months.