Comprehensive Medical Workups

A comprehensive medical workup for your pet is a thorough health check-up that helps ensure they’re feeling their best. This typically  includes a full physical exam and various diagnostic tests, which can be done right in our in-house lab. If further testing is needed, we also work with outside labs to get the most accurate results. These workups are a key part of keeping your pet healthy because they help us catch any hidden issues early on and develop a care plan for your companion. We typically examine the following during medical workups: 

• Physical examination to check your pet’s weight, coat condition, skin, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, and gums. The vet will also feel for any lumps, swelling, or signs of pain.
• Your pet’s temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate will be monitored to ensure they are within a healthy range.
• A complete blood count (CBC) and a chemistry panel are usually performed to assess organ function, detect infections, anemia, or immune system issues.
• Urinalysis to evaluate kidney function and detect signs of infection, dehydration, or other underlying conditions.
• Fecal exam to test for parasites, bacteria, or other digestive issues.
• X-rays and imaging to check for internal issues like organ enlargement, fractures, or masses.
• Heart and lung check to listen for murmurs, arrhythmias, or breathing problems.
• Dental health inspection for signs of dental disease, infections, or tooth damage.

Regular medical workups are important because pets can’t always tell us when something is wrong. By catching health problems early, whether it’s an infection or something more serious, we can treat them quickly and give your pet the best chance to stay happy and healthy for years to come!

Does My Pet Need a Medical Workup?

It can be hard to know when your pet might need a comprehensive medical workup, but there are some key signs to look out for. If your pet is acting differently, like being unusually tired, eating less, losing weight, or showing changes in their bathroom habits, it may be time for a deeper look at their health. Other signs include frequent vomiting, coughing, limping, or difficulty breathing. Even if these symptoms seem mild, they can point to an underlying issue that needs attention, and a comprehensive workup will help identify the problem.

Comprehensive medical workups aren’t just for when your pet is sick, though! They’re also important for routine checkups, especially as your pet gets older. Pets age faster than humans, so regular testing can help catch problems early before they become serious. Whether it’s for peace of mind or addressing specific concerns, a workup ensures your pet is on the right track for a long, happy life. Please contact our team if you are concerned about your pet’s health and are interested in scheduling a medical workup.

What Happens During a Comprehensive Medical Workup?

Before a comprehensive medical workup, your veterinarian will typically ask about your pet’s health history, including any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels. They might also ask about past illnesses or treatments and review your pet’s vaccination status. It’s helpful to bring any notes on your pet’s recent symptoms or concerns to make sure nothing is overlooked. Depending on the situation, you may be asked to fast your pet for a few hours before the appointment, especially if blood tests are planned.

During the workup, your vet will perform a full physical examination, checking your pet’s body for any abnormalities, such as lumps, swelling, or discomfort. This is followed by diagnostic tests, which may include blood work, urinalysis, x-rays, and other imaging tests. At Fishers Animal Hospital, these tests can be done in-house for quick results, but if more specific testing is needed, samples may be sent to an outside lab. Throughout the process, the veterinary team will keep your pet as comfortable as possible, offering gentle handling and reassurance.

After the workup, your vet will discuss the results with you, explaining what they mean for your pet’s health. If any issues are detected, the vet will recommend a treatment plan, which could involve medication, dietary changes, or further testing. If everything looks good, the workup can serve as a valuable baseline for future care. Whether treatment is needed or not, your vet will give you advice on how to support your pet’s health going forward, ensuring they stay happy and well.