How to Schedule Annual Vet Visits

When you schedule regular visits with your vet, you should expect more than just the required yearly shots. A complete physical exam can identify problems before they require more extensive and costly treatments. In some cases, early detection can save your pet's life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Learn how to recognize a complete medical examination. The exam should include checking the eyes and ears for discharge or redness, the legs for normal activity and the skin and coat for dryness or hair loss.

2. Establish a baseline. If you have a puppy or a new pet, your vet should conduct a thorough exam to identify any abnormalities or unusual findings. This will give the vet a basis for a more accurate evaluation at future annual physical.s

3. Schedule annual visits to the vet well in advance. Many vets or animal clinics are over-scheduled for sick or injured pets. Scheduling early will give you the best chance of getting a time slot that is convenient for you and your pet.

4. Ask about the cost for the annual visits. Some vets charge a flat fee, and it includes the physical exam and vaccinations. Any lab work or other tests are additional. Some vets charge for services by separating each component.

5. Let your vet know whether your pet is ill before scheduling the annual checkup. You may need to postpone the visit until the problem is resolved. It is best to have the exam when the pet is healthy, especially since immunizations are involved.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget about birds and other exotic pets. Diseases can be subtle, and they may be found too late for intervention. All pets should be taken for annual checkups.