Comprehensive Physical Examination
We welcome new kittens and puppies. For many families this is where it all begins. Pets receive a Comprehensive Physical Examination while their families learn about Nutrition, Behavior, Immunizations, Flea and Parasite control. These topics are all part of a complete wellness program.
Adolescence in pets, as in people, is a trying time! The good news is that, unlike in people the process lasts 8-10 years while in pets it's a mere 8-10 months. This is a life stage when, if a pet is not yet spayed or neutered, they begin to explore their sexuality. This exploration comes in the form of marking territory (urinating on objects) and dominant behaviors (mounting objects including your leg and fighting). Owners must understand that these are instinctual activities that in a very short time become "Learned" behaviors. Once learned they are NEVER unlearned, they can only be modified. Doesn't it make sense to avoid these problems by spaying or neutering BEFORE puberty than to try to modify obnoxious, unwanted behaviors?
Adolescence is also a wonderful time to introduce obedience training and to teach your pet tricks. Dogs and Cats are very curious and receptive at this age. Making the activity fun, the lessons short but frequent, and giving plenty of positive reinforcement are the keys to success.
Adult pets become complacent. They know their place in the home and generally go with the flow. However in rare cases they become very resistant to change. Moving, new furniture, a change in diet, or god forbid a new member in the household can result in some bazaar behaviors. If the owner seeks our assistance EARLY on, in most instances, we can help. All too often they initially ignore the activity, then seek the advice of their neighbor or consult the pet food sales person. It is not until the problem is unbearable that they finally come to us. At this point the job becomes MUCH tougher. The moral of the story; consult the pet health expert – your veterinarian. It is during an Annual Comprehensive Physical Examination that many of these problems are brought to light. This annual event keeps us in touch with your pet's health. As in middle age people, weight gain can become a serious problem. Consult our staff for dietary recommendations that will fill your pet up, not out. Again, the Hills Company offers the BEST nutritional value for the money. This is the brand of food that we feed our pets.
Seniors present new challenges. Of the more common problems mature pets experience are; Weight Control, Skin and Hair Coat conditions, Allergies, many develop Arthritis and Heart Conditions and of course the ever present lumps and bumps. We are sensitive to the needs of mature pets. Once again the value of an Annual Comprehensive Physical Examination cannot be underestimated. Geriatric veterinary medicine is coming of age. The doctors and staff at the Zeeb Pet Health Center continue to examine new and innovative ways to provide quality of life to our patients and to their families.