Health Screenings
At Ranch House Pet-Med in Waco, Texas, we believe in the importance of early detection when it comes to your pet’s health. Our comprehensive health screenings are designed to detect potential issues before they become serious, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life. Routine health screenings provide invaluable insights into your pet’s overall well-being and ensure that they stay happy and active for years to come.
Why Health Screenings Are Important
Pets age more quickly than humans, and health problems can develop rapidly, often without noticeable symptoms. Many conditions, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and heart disease, can go undetected until they become severe. Health screenings are essential for identifying hidden health problems early, allowing us to treat conditions before they become life-threatening.
Regular health screenings are particularly important for senior pets, who may experience age-related changes that are not immediately obvious. However, health screenings are beneficial for pets of all ages. Early detection allows us to address potential issues early on, improving your pet’s chances of recovery and ensuring they live a full, healthy life.
What’s Included in a Health Screening?
At Ranch House Pet-Med, we tailor health screenings to your pet’s specific age, breed, lifestyle, and health history. A typical health screening includes a combination of physical exams, laboratory tests, and diagnostic procedures designed to assess your pet’s overall health and catch any underlying issues.
Physical Exam
A thorough physical examination is the first step in any health screening. During this exam, our experienced veterinarians will assess your pet’s overall condition, including their weight, coat, eyes, ears, teeth, and skin. We’ll also check for any signs of abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps, or joint stiffness. The physical exam is crucial for detecting issues that may require further diagnostic testing or immediate attention.
Blood Work
Blood tests are an essential part of any health screening, as they provide valuable information about your pet’s internal health. Blood work helps us assess organ function, detect infections, evaluate blood cell counts, and measure hormone levels. By analyzing the results, we can identify early signs of conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, anemia, or diabetes. Regular blood work is especially important for senior pets, as it can provide insight into conditions that may not show symptoms until they’ve progressed.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is another key component of a health screening. This test helps assess your pet’s kidney function and can also reveal signs of urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or other conditions that affect the urinary system. Like blood work, a urinalysis can uncover potential issues that may be affecting your pet’s health, even if they’re not exhibiting symptoms.
Heart and Lung Health Assessment
Heart disease and lung issues are common in pets, especially as they age. As part of our health screenings, we’ll listen to your pet’s heart and lungs to check for irregularities, such as murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or signs of respiratory distress. If necessary, we may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays or an electrocardiogram (EKG), to evaluate their heart and lung health in more detail.
Parasite Testing
Pets are often exposed to parasites like heartworms, fleas, and ticks, which can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Our health screenings include tests for parasites, such as a fecal examination for intestinal parasites or a blood test for heartworms. Early detection and treatment of parasites are crucial for preventing complications and maintaining your pet’s overall health.
Regular Screenings for Long-Term Health
At Ranch House Pet-Med, we recommend that pets undergo health screenings at least once a year, although more frequent screenings may be necessary for senior pets or those with known health issues. By making health screenings a regular part of your pet’s healthcare routine, you’re taking a proactive approach to their health, ensuring they remain in optimal condition throughout their lives.
Schedule a Health Screening Today
Your pet’s health is our top priority at Ranch House Pet-Med. Our health screenings provide a comprehensive look at your pet’s overall well-being, helping to detect any potential issues early and give you peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a health screening for your pet and take the first step toward maintaining their long-term health and happiness.