Our annual wellness check-up takes a minimum of 30 minutes. The healthcare team will make a thorough assessment of your pet’s weight, demeanor, eyes, teeth, ears, heart, lungs, abdomen, gait and general appearance including the condition of the skin and coat. This appointment may include vaccinations.
We also offer other services including nail trims, ear cleanings, and expression of anal glands which can be requested at this appointment.
We will discuss any nutritional and behavioral questions, or any other concerns that you may have. If required, we would be happy to assist you in finding proper training, pet sitting or kenneling facilities.
We do recommend bringing a stool sample to the exam. It will be sent to the lab for parasite assessment. The veterinarian will discuss parasite control options that are best suited for your pets lifestyle.
Vaccinations
We follow the recommendations outlined by The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). These recommendations are based on the pets’ geographic location, age and lifestyle.
Puppy and kitten vaccines are administered at approximately 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age. This timeline may vary depending on breed, weight and other circumstances as recommended by the veterinarian.
Below you can see a brief description of each vaccine and what it protects against. We are here to help you make an informed decision as to which vaccines your pet needs based on lifestyle.
Canine & Feline Vaccines
Rabies:
In Canada the most common carriers of rabies include bats, foxes, raccoons and skunks. Vaccination of dogs, cats and ferrets is required by law in Ontario.
Canine Vaccines
DA2PP:
This “mixed vaccine” protects against several viral infections to which all dogs have potential exposure: distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus.
Leptospirosis:
This is a bacterium that travels in the urine of wildlife and can cause life threatening infections in dogs. Lepto is also a zoonotic organism meaning it can be transmitted to humans. Does your dog have exposure to wildlife, livestock or the environment in which these animals urinate? Does your dog drink from or swim in fresh water lakes, rivers or puddles?
Lyme:
Public Health Ontario identifies Ottawa as an “at risk area” for Lyme disease. Ticks carry many diseases but Lyme is the most commonly diagnosed. This vaccine offers extra protection along with your monthly preventative.
Bordatella:
This bacterium is involved in many cases of canine bronchitis. It is highly contagious between dogs and vaccination is required by boarding facilities. Does your dog enjoy meeting or playing with other dogs? Does your dog attend puppy classes, visit dog parks, groomers, dog shows or doggie daycare?
Feline Vaccines
FVRCP
This “mixed vaccine” protects against several viral infections to which all cats have potential exposure: Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia.
FeLV
This vaccine protects against Feline Viral Leukemia which is transmitted between cats. It is recommended for cats who spend any time outdoors and have potential contact with other cats. This may include cats in fenced backyards or on a leash.
At Riverside South Animal Hospital, we consider all of these vaccines to be very important and encourage you to have a thorough discussion with the healthcare team about your pets’ lifestyle and ask any questions you may have at your appointment.