pet parents who want to keep their dogs and cats healthy should make it a necessity for their pets to visit a veterinarian near the area of Jacksonville, FL to obtain routine care. With annual visits to the veterinarian, pets will receive the best possible care and will stay on top of their vaccinations and overall health, even as they enter the golden years. Dr. Venkat Gutta will evaluate pets and explain to pet parents why routine checkups are essential to one’s overall health. Instead of only bringing pets in when they are sick or injured, our team of professionals highly recommend scheduling routine visits for optimum health. Below are a few of the reasons why these visits are essential to a longer, happier, and healthier life!

What happens during a pet checkup?

Routine evaluations with a veterinarian are essential to your pet’s health. During these appointments, the veterinarian will start by conducting a physical examination. This is also known as “nose-to-tail” check. The vet moves along the pet’s body to check the mouth, skin, paws, and tail. This allows him to diagnose if there are problems such as periodontal disease affecting the mouth. The skin and coat are evaluated as well, as these can indicate other issues that may be occurring. For senior pets, x-rays may be done to look for signs of arthritis or joint issues that can impact your pet’s pain levels. At the end of the appointment, the veterinarian may make some recommendations in terms of diet and exercise, as well as preventative medications for heartworms or fleas.

Importance of routine vaccinations

One of the best ways to keep your pet healthy is to have them vaccinated regularly. Vaccinations, or inoculations, are just as necessary to pets as they are to children and adults. These vaccinations can protect pets from contracting a preventable condition. Vaccinations are typically done on a routine basis, either each year or every few years. They can also keep your pet from developing issues such as kennel cough or rabies. Puppies and kittens often need routine vaccinations during their first few months of life, and they will continue to have vaccinations completed throughout their adult years and into their senior years.

Why is it essential to have routine checkups with a veterinarian?

There are several benefits to routine evaluations with veterinary staff at San Marco Animal Hospital. Regular checkups are:

• Great for ensuring pets are up to date on vaccinations
• The best way to diagnose problems early on for better treatment success
• Perfect for pet parents who may have questions about their pet’s health
• The best way to ensure pets are protected against preventable issues including rabies and kennel cough
• Great for allowing the veterinarian to detect concerns with a pet’s activity level and/or nutrition
• The perfect way to start a conversation about your pet’s overall health and wellness and discuss the need for specific treatments in the near future

What if my pet is sick between routine evaluations?

Not every condition can be caught early enough for successful interventions. Just like humans have the option to go to the emergency room when problems arise, pets can visit their veterinarian for the same purpose. If your pet has a change in their behavior, has had a recent injury, or is experiencing symptoms that are concerning, it is essential that a pet parent take their pet to the veterinarian’s office for an evaluation. Pets can experience many of the same medical concerns as people can, including cancer, congestive heart failure, arthritis, anxiety, and the like. With a dedicated veterinarian team by your side, you can take the steps necessary to help your pet in their time of need and provide quality care as needed.

Start your pet off on the right track from the start!

If you are a family with a new dog or cat or want to start getting them care at a practice that offers quality, comprehensive veterinary services, now is the time to connect with Dr. Venkat Gutta and his team at San Marco Animal Hospital in the area of Jacksonville, FL. Call 904-399-5557 today! Our practice is conveniently located at 1546 San Marco Boulevard in the San Marco community.