Your pet's annual vet check-up will include a total physical exam, with a thorough investigation of your pet's head, body and tail, and all his assorted cavities. Because even the most cooperative pet may not readily go-along with a tooth and gum brushing, an annual cleaning by your veterinarian maybe in order. Like you, your pet can lose his teeth due to decay and neglect.
It's a good idea to keep an accurate medical diary not only of the procedures and vaccinations your pet receives at the vet, but also of notes on things like your pet's elimination habits and any physical changes or unusual occurrences. Keep track of small shifts in your pet's behavior, including urinary marking habits and mood swings, along with diet and routine modifications. Take this notebook when you visit the vet. These seemingly unrelated occurrences may help explain results of your pet's medical tests. Also, if you need to change vets, it's good to have this journal to provide a complete medical history.
Choose a veterinarian who is compassionate and willing to explain all the procedures your pet undergoes. Try to find a vet with whom both you and your pet feel comfortable. Try to have it convenient, choose a clinic with qualified staff and facilities to undertake surgery and perform procedures requiring anesthesia, such as teeth cleaning. An estimate can be provided by the veterinarian, but may not always reflect the final cost of major procedures.
Because of the general risks inherent to anesthesia, especially for very old, very young or very ill pets, your veterinarian may suggest a few exams, X-rays and lab work of blood and urine, to help diagnose your pet's health issue. Major surgeries may require IV drip fluids (especially for older, large or ill animals; antibiotics may be necessary before and after to fight off infection. An e-collar (aka "the cone-of-shame") is always advised post-surgery to prevent your pet from licking or chewing at the incision site. It is also very important to restricted activity post-surgery. If your pet is too active, sutures could dehisce, a seroma may occur and additional surgical repair may be required.
COVID-19 UPDATE:
Due to Covid-19, Only one party is allowed in the lobby at a time. We are seeing limited exams in rooms, but are taking your pet to the back where the doctor will perform the exam while you wait in your car. You are welcome to drop your pet off with us if you must leave, but please give us a phone number to reach you at. Any treatment or procedures needed will be gone over first with an estimate. This estimate is just a quote as some things change once we are able to take a better look. We ask for your patience during this difficult time. We only have one doctor and we are working as hard and quickly as we can to meet the needs of all our patients. We stop seeing exams 1 hour before closing.