Pet Wellness Visits and Vaccines at Amherst Veterinary Hospital
We know that each wagging tail and purring companion is not just a pet, but a valued family member! We’re dedicated to our commitment to providing exceptional veterinary care throughout every stage of their lives. Our wellness visits and tailored vaccine regimens offer the preventive care necessary to safeguard their well-being and ensure they remain by your side, happy and healthy, for years to come.
Annual Pet Wellness Visits
Each wellness visit is an opportunity to catch early signs of disease, discuss your pet’s lifestyle changes, and craft a care plan that aligns with their evolving needs.
Heart Health Evaluation
Identifying potential concerns such as heart murmurs, irregular rhythms, or signs of heart disease.
Dental Examination
Checking for signs of infection, impaction, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Respiratory Assessment
Ensuring your pet’s lungs are clear and listening for any abnormalities.
Ophthalmic and Otoscopic Exam
Evaluating the condition of your pet’s eyes and ears for signs of health issues.
Skin and Coat Analysis
Assessing for any indications of skin conditions or coat abnormalities.
Physical Palpation
Examining your pet’s abdomen, lymph nodes, joints, and muscles to detect any irregularities.
Behavioral Consultation
Discussing changes in behavior and providing solutions for at-home care.
Tailored Vaccine Protocols – A Shield Against Disease
Vaccination is a vital part of your pet’s defense against harmful diseases. Every pet has unique exposure risks, therefore, we offer a comprehensive range of vaccinations attuned to your pet’s specific lifestyle:
Core Vaccines
These are essential for all pets, providing a defense against the most common and severe diseases.
- For dogs, core vaccines include: Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus Type 2.
- For cats, core vaccines include: Rabies, Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FeLV).
Lifestyle Vaccines
Based on your pet’s environment and activities, we may recommend additional vaccines to provide complete protection.
- For dogs, non-core vaccines may include: Lyme disease, and Bordetella
- For cats, non-core vaccines may include: Chlamydia felis, and Bordetella
During your wellness visit, our doctors, and technicians will be pleased to discuss the most appropriate vaccine schedule for your pet, ensuring they stay protected, year after year.
Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Visits and Vaccines Today
For more information please contact us at 715-824-2545 or fill out our online appointment form on our website. At Amherst Veterinary Hospital, we’re dedicated to ensuring the well-being of your cherished companions with compassion, care, and excellence in veterinary service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Wellness Visits and Vaccines
Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority, and we believe in keeping you informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your furry family members. Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help address your concerns and shed light on the importance and procedures of regular wellness checks and vaccinations.
Does my indoor cat need to take heartworm preventatives?
Indoor cats are not exempt from the risk of heartworm disease. While it’s a common misconception that heartworm is only a concern for outdoor pets, indoor pets are also at risk. Mosquitoes, the primary carriers of heartworm larvae, can easily find their way into homes, exposing indoor cats to the same risks as their outdoor counterparts. Given that even a single mosquito bite can transmit heartworm disease, and considering the serious health implications and the difficulty of treating heartworm infection in cats, preventive medication is strongly advised. Preventatives are safe, effective, and a critical part of ensuring your indoor cat’s long-term health and wellbeing.
Does my pet need to take their heartworm medication all year?
In short, yes. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. Given that mosquitoes can thrive in many environments and climates, often beyond the traditional warm months, it’s crucial to maintain consistent heartworm preventative measures throughout the year. This assures protection against heartworm disease irrespective of seasonal changes. At Amherst Veterinary Hospital, we strongly recommend year-round heartworm prevention for all pets, aligning with guidelines from leading veterinary organizations. This approach not only safeguards your pet’s health but also provides peace of mind knowing you’re taking proactive steps against this significant threat.
Can indoor pets skip vaccines?
No. Even indoor pets are at risk of diseases like rabies, which can be transmitted through bats entering homes or unexpected escapes. Core vaccines are essential for all pets, regardless of their lifestyle.
Why are vaccines important for my pet’s health?
Vaccines protect your pet from highly contagious and deadly diseases. They stimulate the immune system to prepare defenses against these diseases, significantly reducing the risk of infection or lessening the severity of disease if contracted.
How often should my pet have wellness exams?
We recommend annual wellness exams for most pets. However, more frequent visits might be necessary for senior pets, those with chronic health conditions, or breeds prone to specific health issues.
What age should my pet have its first wellness visit?
Pets should have their first wellness exam at around 6-8 weeks of age. This initial visit allows us to start them on the right path with vaccine schedules and to assess their overall health and development.