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An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Many diseases and illnesses are preventable. This means that with proper care, certain conditions can be
virtually eliminated. For example, consider heartworm disease. Heartworms are 100% preventable. By
successfully giving a monthly heartworm pill, heartworm disease can be avoided. A physical examination can
identify problem areas. Once these areas have been identified, recommendations for prevention of more serious
diseases can be made.
Our Goal
Our goal is to help you enjoy your pet for as many healthy years as possible. We are here to help educate you
about preventative well care and to manage your pet’s medical needs. We are solemnly dedicated to the proper
care for your pet—a team effort involving you, our veterinarian and our veterinary support staff. Early disease
detection can prolong the quality and longevity of your pet’s life.
Why Do You Want Your Pet to Have a Physical Exam?
Your pet can’t always tell you where it hurts, or pets may mask their pain (a survival behavior in the wild). A
comprehensive physical exam allows our doctor to compile a list of clues that can help uncover disease. Early
detection and treatment are essential to avoid undue suffering and to prolong the quality and longevity of your
pet’s life. Watch for subtle changes in your pet’s body weight, appetite, water intake, urination and bowel habits,
as well as general attitude and activity level. These changes may signal liver, kidney or heart problems. Lumps
and bumps under the skin may seem harmless, but can be cancerous. Ear infections, abscessed teeth and gum
disease are common, painful conditions that may not become obvious until seriously advanced. A comprehensive
physical exam is the basic tool we use to evaluate your pet’s health status and to help you make informed
decisions about the care of your special companion.
What You Can Expect during a Comprehensive Physical Exam
A physical exam is a complete hands-on assessment of your pet’s health status. Your veterinarian will detect
disease by listening (auscultation), feeling (palpating) and looking (visual evaluation). First, we weigh your pet
and measure his/her temperature, heart rate, and respiration. After taking these basic measurements, your pet is
examined from head to tail, while all vital organs along the way are gently palpated. Every body system is
checked for disease. During the physical exam, your doctor assesses the risks your pet has for contracting
preventable diseases caused by internal parasites (heartworms and intestinal worms) and external parasites
(fleas, mites and ticks) and viruses. You will receive advice on how to prevent these disease-causing agents with
medications and/or vaccinations.
Good Health For Your Pet Includes a Periodic Blood Test
Early detection and treatment is essential for your pet’s long and healthy life. A Blood Chemistry Screen can pick
up a problem before it’s caught on physical examination. Early detection of diabetes, kidney and liver disease, as
well as a metabolic or hormonal imbalance is possible with blood screening.
At What Other Times is a Comprehensive Physical Exam and Blood Screen Necessary?
Pets with disease conditions require more intense monitoring than healthy pets. Medical technology changes
rapidly and visiting your veterinarian regularly ensures that your pet is receiving the very best, up-to-date care.
Of course, a physical exam is appropriate anytime you suspect a problem.

Yearly Wellness Exam for Your Pet
Santa Ana Veterinary Hospital
Welcome
Our Services
Pet Care
- Dog Nutrition
- Cat Nutrition
- Vaccination Information
- Puppy Packages
- Kitten Packages
- Pet Behavior
- Gum Disease
- Aging Pets
- Nail Trimming
- FAQ's
Contact Us
1933 South Main St. Santa Ana, CA 92707
(714) 545-8281
petdocs@yahoo.com
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