Annual Health Checks
for Dogs and Cats at Small Friends Veterinary Hospital
Many pet owners think, “My dog looks fine” or “My cat seems happy, so why visit the vet?”
While this makes sense to us as humans, annual veterinary health checks are extremely important for your pet’s long-term health and well-being.
Pets age much faster than people, and illness can develop silently. Regular annual check-ups allow our veterinary team to detect health problems early, often before symptoms are visible.
- Why Does My Pet Need an Annual Health Check?
On average, dogs and cats age 5 to 8 times faster than humans. This means that changes to their health can occur quickly, and problems may progress before you notice anything at home.
Some pets also instinctively hide signs of illness, especially in the early stages. A professional veterinary examination is often the only way to detect hidden disease.
Just like in human medicine, early detection leads to better treatment outcomes. Prevention truly is better than cure.
- What Is Included in an Annual Health Check?
During your appointment, your pet will receive a full “Tip of the Nose to Tip of the Tail” examination.
Dr Matt will check:
- Nose and eyes
- Mouth and teeth
- Ears
- Heart and lungs
- Coat and skin
- Abdomen
- Legs and feet
- Tail and joints
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This comprehensive physical examination allows your vet to assess overall health and identify early signs of disease or discomfort.
Annual health checks are also an ideal time for you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have noticed since your last visit.
- How You Can Help With Your Pet’s Health Check
You know your pet better than anyone. Small changes in behaviour or routine can be important clues to underlying health problems.
Things to consider discussing with Dr Matt include:
- Changes in eating habits
- Changes in toilet habits
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Drinking more or less water than usual
- Changes in coat or skin condition
- Difficulty with normal activities
- Limping or changes in walking
- New lumps or bumps
- Bad breath
- Panting or breathing changes
- Changes in personality or behaviour
This information, combined with the physical examination, helps us provide the best possible care for your pet.
- How Much Does an Annual Health Check Cost?
Your pet’s annual health check is the same price as a standard veterinary consultation.
- Can Vaccinations Be Given at the Same Time?
Yes. Annual health checks are an excellent opportunity to keep your pet’s vaccinations and preventative care up to date.
This allows us to:
- Protect your pet from preventable disease
- Review parasite prevention such as flea and worm treatments
- Ensure your pet remains healthy year-round
For more information, please visit our Vaccinations page.
- Why Annual Pet Health Checks Are So Important
Even if your pet appears healthy at home, routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early disease detection and lifelong wellbeing.
An annual health check supports:
- Longer life expectancy
- Better quality of life
- Early diagnosis of illness
- Preventative healthcare planning
Regular check-ups are one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s long-term health.
Your pet’s health matters at every stage of life.
Book an annual health check today and give your small friend the best start to a healthy year.