The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that dogs get routine exams twice a year. The typical physical exam your veterinarian conducts achieves the following: establish baselines, allows them to monitor the effectiveness of treatment they may have prescribed, and catch any changes in the dogs physical status.
Because dogs cannot talk to their doctors, the veterinarians rely on observation. When they first enter the examining room, they will judge the dogs emotional reaction and physical signs. Are they curious, alert, happy? Or are they hanging their heads, stumbling, 
tail down? The veterinarian quickly does a visual evaluation of the body language and signs.
The dog will be weighed and evaluated for obesity or malnutrition. The veterinarian will look for physical symmetry along with weight. Any sudden weight gain or loss may be a sign of a physical problem.
The skin and coat will be examined for signs of overall health. Usually this part of the exam starts around the lips, ears, and eyes primarily the junctions between mucous membranes and the haired skin. The skin and hair can reflect parasite infestation, your dogs nutrition, and metabolism.
ENT – Your veterinarian will thoroughly check your pet’s ear, eyes, and mouth area for any inflammation, odor, or parasites. The teeth will be examined to look for build up of tartar and redness, chipped teeth, and any oral masses. They will also exam the gums – the color can tell the vet a lot about the condition of the mouth.
Heart and Lungs – your veterinarian will listen for any wheezing or crackling in the lungs – this is a health concern. They hope to heart a normal heart rate and rhythm. They look for heart murmurs.
Internal Organs – This is done by palpitation and includes checking for normal liver size, location, and edges. The large and small intestines are examined for excess fluid, gas, or possible masses.
Lymph Nodes – The dog will be examined for any bumps or swelling in the lymph node regions. This can be a sign of sepsis or lymphoma.
Private Parts – Male dogs will have their prostate checked. Both sexes will have be examined for any signs of swelling or discharge in this area. The veterinarian will check a joint between the pelvis and hips for pain as well as the lymph nodes and anal sacs.
During the entire exam, your vet will be looking for any signs of pain. This is especially true in the spine, tail and major joints.
Normally blood is taken and the following values are checked:
- Thyroid Levels
- Kidney and Liver Functions
- Pancreas Levels
- Metabolism
- Glucose Levels
- CBC – Anemia or Infection
- Electrolytes
5 Questions You Can Ask at the First Visit with Your Veterinarian
What will my dog cost?
Sadly, two out of three puppies will not be with their original owner in two years time. The two biggest reasons are behavior and cost. Veterinarians say it’s best to be prepared and be aware of the minimum amount a dog is likely to set you back. Your vet should be able to lay out the expenses you can expect to incur. The first year is typically the most expensive. The dog should be neutered, multiple vaccines are needed, and parasite prevention begins.
What identification does my dog need?
Your dog should be micro-chipped even if it is not a legal requirement where you live. Your dog should also wear a collar with an identification tag. The microchip is a nice backup as a collar can’t come off or tags can get lost. Remember, that if your information changes you have to get the microchip updated also.
What should I feed my dog?
Nutrition for your dog is just as important as it is for you. The type of diet you feed your dog will depend on a number of factors, such as the age of the dog, breed, health condition, and activity level. Your veterinarian can recommend the best food, vitamins, supplements or natural products that your dog needs. Veterinarian will also manage diseases through a specially prescribed formulated therapeutic diet. Another option is to cook for your dog but always discuss this with the doctor first. Dogs need certain daily requirements to keep them healthy. Just because certain foods are beneficial to humans does not automatically make them safe for canines.
Which vaccines does my dog need?
Vaccines can be broken down into two groups. There are the core and non-core vaccines. Some core vaccines are required and others are highly recommended. Non-core vaccines can be recommended by your vet and will depend on your dog’s lifestyle. Another detail that determines needed vaccines is the part of the country you live in. Diseases vary and the frequency required for vaccinations varies by area. Your veterinarian can tell you what vaccinations you have to get for your dog as well as the optional vaccinations that may or no be a good idea for your situation.
What does my pet’s behavior mean?
Behavioral issues are the number on reason people return dogs to shelters after adopting. Veterinarians are a great source of information in how to deal with behavioral issues you are having with your dog. If your dog has suddenly changed his behavior you should also discuss this with your vet. A change in behavior can actually be a sign of an underlying medical issue the dog has developed. In either case, speak to your doctor about your concerns.
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