Veterinary Exams in Prince George, BC

What are Veterinary Exams?

At CHVC, veterinary examinations are one of the first things we do for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

Physical exams are the foundation of any veterinarian visit, and any appointment with us will almost always start with one. These exams take place at every appointment, ensuring each pet receives thorough care from the moment they arrive.

During an exam, we’ll evaluate your pet for abnormalities, disease, and signs of pain. That involves:

  • Measuring weight, pulse, heart rate, and breathing rate.
  • Examining eyes, ears, and mouth for signs of disease, infection, or dental problems.
  • Checking the skin and coat for abnormalities like lumps, fleas, hair loss, or signs of infection.
  • Listening to the heart and lungs for any murmurs or abnormal sounds.
  • Feeling the abdomen to check the organs for any abnormalities.
  • Assessing the joints for mobility, flexibility, and any signs of discomfort or pain.
  • Observing for alertness, reflexes, and basic neurologic function.
  • Inspecting the genital area, lymph nodes, and other parts of the body for any unusual findings.

Why We Perform Physical Exams on Pets

Physical exams let us determine your pet’s health status and detect any abnormalities.

These examinations also help us decide which treatments or tests are needed to get your pet back to being healthy and happy. We usually recommend annual wellness exams to help pick up on any subtle changes in your pet’s health that may not be noticeable in their day to day lives. This lets us diagnose many issues earlier than we otherwise could, giving us a better chance at treating them successfully and preventing undue distress to your pet.

Adorable puppy being held
Cute kitten

What to Expect from Your Pet’s Physical Exam

When you bring your pet in for an exam, we’ll examine them from nose to tail.

We’ll also ask about their daily routine, diet, behavior, and any concerns you may have. From there we’ll either give your pet a clean bill of health or talk over options for further testing and treatment.