Comprehensive Physical Exam and History

The Comprehensive Physical Examination allows us to make recommendation for further tests, changes in nutrition and also allows us to safely immunize your pets against life threatening / preventable diseases. The information and physical findings are determined with the aid of our Animal Health Technicians (AHT) and our Doctors.

Abdomen: Evaluate by palpation (using our touch) organs in the abdomen. The liver, kidneys, bladder, gastrointestinal tract and lymph nodes are checked for size, consistency and location.

Age Related Concerns: These concerns take into consideration the life stage of your particular pet.

Appearance, Weight, Temperature: Varies for individuals, species and breeds, but we are responsible to know the normal.

Behavior: Any recent changes or ongoing problems would be considered. (see Behavior Services)

Cardiovascular: Use History of changes in exercise tolerance, collapses or coughing may be important to cardiovascular abnormalities. Use of stethoscope to evaluate rate, rhythm or presence of heart murmur are important to a comprehensive physical exam.

Gastrointestinal tract: Abnormal history of vomiting or abnormal or absence of stools is evaluated. History of proper diet is noted for species, age and underlying medical concerns. (Check out Hill's Pet Nutrition)

Mouth and Teeth: Gums, teeth and internal mouth structures are checked for normal appearance. Surface of the teeth are evaluated for signs of tartar build up and associated problems of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Musculoskeletal: Bone structure, including absence of joint swellings, is evaluated to be normal for species, age and breed. Motion or gait is also visualized to assure normal findings.

Nervous System: Bright and alert attitude with proper body control is assessed for normal findings. History of abnormal changes or loss of consciousness (possible seizures) is evaluated.

Respiratory: Use of stethoscope to evaluate normal lung sounds are important. Palpation of chest and trachea may be helpful to determine normal findings.

Skin and Hair Coat: Healthy full haircoat is evaluated, as well, as the absence of any tumors, bumps, scales or redness. History of signs of pruritis (itching) are checked as part of a comprehensive physical exam.

Urogenital: Evaluate for a normal urinary tract with history of absence of any abnormal changes of frequency or difficulty in urination. Intact males and females are checked for normal structures and history. (see our recommendations for surgical sterilization)