Spring Check-ups for Pets: Veterinary Care in Massachusetts
We love our pets at Anchor Animal Hospital Dartmouth just like you do! Our goal is to ensure that all of the animals that go through our doors get the same high standard of care that we want for our own fur family. We can take care of your pet at any stage of life, and we pride ourselves on making you part of the Anchor Animal Family. Whether you have a new puppy or kitty, a senior pet, or anything in between, we are here to meet your needs and keep your pet happy and healthy. New patients should schedule a check-up so we can establish your pet for quality veterinary care in Massachusetts. Our Dartmouth vet hospital offers well-care check-ups, emergency services, advanced dentistry, surgery, pain management, and many other specialized services to address all of your pet’s needs.
What to Expect at an Annual Check-up
A routine visit to the local vet clinic is crucial to maintain your pet’s good health and provide preventive treatments, vaccines, and testing to ensure they stay healthy for many years to come. Veterinary care in Massachusetts at Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth is proactive. We encourage our clients to bring in their cats, dogs, and other beloved pets to receive regular exams. For dogs, you must bring your pet in on a leash for their safety and the safety of others. For cats, we prefer that you bring your pet in using a carrier or other safe transport product. Learning how to calmly prepare your pet for a vet visit can make sure that they have a positive experience and that our staff can complete the full exam. A spring veterinary check-up is a great way to start off the spring and summer seasons by making sure your pet is caught up on all preventive care and services.
Some of the things that we check for during an annual veterinary check-up include internal parasites, such as heartworm, worms, and eggs. Fleas and ticks can also be a significant concern year-round and are not just limited to the hot summer months when they are the most active. Heartworm has become an increasing problem for cats. While most people think about it in relation to dogs, we have seen it occur here at our Dartmouth vet hospital and highly recommend annual testing and preventive care. Heartworm is one hundred percent preventable with a year-round treatment. Fleas, ticks, and other parasitic pests can carry diseases that can sometimes pass from pets to humans. The best defense against these problematic creatures is to have a solid and consistent offense through quality veterinary care in Massachusetts.
Why Your Pet Needs Annual Check-ups
Small puppies and kittens require a lot of early care, vaccines, and testing to ensure they have a good and healthy start. Senior pets often need more frequent check-ups, sometimes two to four times a year, especially if they have any conditions that require monitoring and treatment. Adult pets between one year and six years of age also require veterinary check-ups at our Dartmouth vet hospital. If we can spot a small health issue before it becomes a significant and life-threatening condition, it will be easier to treat and have a full recovery. Conditions such as obesity, arthritis, and dental disease can be extremely dangerous for cats and dogs but can be treated to reduce symptoms and minimize damage to the other organs and systems of the body.
Ongoing vaccines and preventive treatments for parasites and other dangers can be administered during the annual veterinary appointment. Massachusetts state law requires all cats and dogs to be vaccinated at rabies, which can spread through contact with wildlife, such as bats, opossums, raccoons, rabbits, and rodents. Microchipping is not required but is strongly recommended. If your pet becomes lost, microchips can reunite the lost pets with their owners. Dental care includes a visual check-up during your pet’s visit, as well as any recommendations for cleanings and other types of dental care, depending on your pet’s age and oral health. If you would like to schedule an appointment at Anchor Animal Hospital Dartmouth to ensure your pet’s health and ongoing care, contact our team by calling 508-996-3731 and speak with one of our friendly staff members about your needs.