What to expect with an annual exam with Dr. Susan McMillan

Welcome to Bark & Wag’s 15 minute Vet Talk – I am your host Polly ReQua Today we are talking to one of our favorite vets, Dr. Susan McMillan, owner of Vet to Pet Mobile Veterinary Service in Burlington, Vermont we will be discussing annual exams for your pet. Thanks for agreeing to do discuss what to expect when taking your dog to the vet for an annual exam. Welcome Dr. Susan McMillan. Let's just say you came in for your pet's routine yearly vaccination. Usually this is a good time for the doctor to take a really close look at your pet -- a good time to do an annual physical exam. Written notes on the patient's medical chart are absolutely necessary in order to maintain a good medical history. Computers are an excellent way for the veterinarian to access current information on new techniques, medications and procedures. A good physical exam includes taking the patient's temperature. Normal temperature for a dog or cat varies between 101 and 102.5 degrees; that's a bit higher than our normal temperature. Skin and coat are really excellent indicators of the pet's health status. The vast majority of skin and coat problems are associated with grain-based diets of poor quality and during the physical exam your veterinarian should inquire about the pet's diet. Your veterinarian should examine both ears, too. Many dogs (and cats) suffer from allergies. Skin and ear infections are commonly the result of repeated allergic episodes.