Tel: 0115 982 1717

Collington Way, West Bridgford, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 7LR

Has your pet had a health assessment recently?

The bond we share with our animals is a very special one and we all have a big responsibility to make sure we are doing everything we can to keep them healthy and happy for as long as is possible!

For our practice, keeping pets well goes very much beyond treating them when they’re sick or injured. Many don’t realise that your pet’s regular health assessment is considered to play an essential role in maintaining their wellbeing. Through a regular visit, at least every 6-12 months, we not only provide essential advice on your pet’s specific care and health needs at each stage of its life, but we can also detect many underlying issues and risks so they can be addressed before they become significant, painful or more costly to treat.

During a health assessment, we ask in-depth questions about your pet’s lifestyle and habits and your pet gets a full medical check-up from nose to tail (plus all the parts in between!).  If indicated, further tests can be recommended and we are able to discuss and advise on any concerns you may have. This not only gives you peace of mind around your pet’s current health and wellbeing, but also ensures you minimise the risks of future health problems such as obesity, dental disease and diabetes.

 

Why do our pets need a regular “check-up”?

Here are 5 top reasons why regular visits to the practice are a vital part of your pet healthcare that you may not realise!

1. Our Pets age more quickly than us

Sadly, our dogs and cats have a far shorter life span than their owners and age more rapidly. In one calendar year, a dog or cat may age the equivalent of five to fifteen years in a human's life, which is why an annual health visit is so important for your cats and dogs.

2. Our Pets can’t tell you that they are poorly

Some health conditions can affect cats and dogs with symptoms that are hard to spot. That doesn’t mean they aren’t causing pain or distress though! Our vets are trained to spot changes or abnormalities and detect problems before they advance or become more difficult to treat.

3. Obesity is a problem for more and more pets

It’s been shown that 1 out of 2 pets are overweight; as in humans, surplus weight can adversely affect quality of life and puts our pets at increased risk of a range of serious health problems including diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory disease

4. Teeth and gums

Chronic infections in the mouth cause bad breath, pain, gum disease, tooth loss and can also cause or relate to disease elsewhere in the body.

5. Preventative care is better than reactive care.

In addition to other health issues that can be detected, annual health visits ensure your dog’s vaccines and parasite control are appropriate to the lifestyle of your pet and significant infectious and parasitic health risks that your pet and family are likely to face are avoided.

How often should my pet have a health assessment?

This depends on the pet's age and current health status. For adult dogs and cats, health assessments should be undertaken at least once a year. For rapidly growing puppies and kittens and for the older pet, every 6 months or more may be advisable.

Seeing your pets when they seem well is just as important as when they are sick or injured and we’re committed to your pet’s wellbeing every step of the way. Taking the steps to ensure your pet stays in good health is a vital part of caring for the pet you love. The best way to keep your pet on top form is with our support and advice, so if we haven’t seen your pet recently make sure you schedule a check-up with us now.

Don’t delay - call us to make an appointment today!

Rushcliffe Vets
Rushcliffe Vets
2017-03-03
Has your pet had a health assessment recently?