Our San Francisco veterinarians recommend all pets have at least annual Comprehensive Physical Exams. Vaccinations are only a part of our plan to prevent illness, treat disease and ensure optimal health for your pet. Whether a turtle, a rabbit, a guinea pig, a dog, a cat, or an exotic pet, The Doctors at Balboa Pet Hospital Veterinarians need you to be your pet’s advocate. Subtle changes in behavior can be a clue that there is something else going on. Preventive exams and a good relationship with your veterinarian are as important as they are for you and your medical doctor.
Pet’s tend to hide their symptoms
Your pet will be tested annually for heartworm (cats as well as dogs in some cases) and we will also collect a fecal sample at least yearly to check for internal parasites. In addition, our San Francisco veterinarians recommend that your pet has routine or preventive care blood tests and urinalysis before your pet reaches the senior years in order to obtain baseline values which can be used for comparison later in your pet’s life. In apparently healthy pets, we sometimes find disease processes in their early stages, early enough that treatment can be started before symptoms become apparent. More frequent examinations are required as your pet enters middle age or senior years, just like humans!