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We are dedicated to preserving the health and wellness in each of our patients. Our wellness
visits incorporates an in-depth and thorough examination for each patient. We are believers
in wellness visits to identify issues before they become significant threats to the health of
our patient and we provide only the necessary vaccines for the patient, adhering to the
American Animal Hospital Association Guidelines for Vaccines
(www.aahanet.org/PublicDocuments/VaccineGuidelines06Revised.pdf).
Each patient is thoroughly examined by Dr. Dorsam, inspecting the patient's entire body, for
abnormalities.
The oral portion of the exam is a critical part. We look for indication of plaque and tartar,
gingivitis, periodontal disease, and in the cat, evidence of "Feline
Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions" (FORL), knowing that severe oral pathology can lead to other life-threatening
diseases. Recommendations are made for the patient including professional dental cleanings
(see "Dental Clinic"), preventative measures, including tooth brushing, dentrifice diets, and
additives to the pet's drinking water.
The skin and hair coat are inspected, combing the coat for evidence of external parasites
(fleas and ticks), lesions due to allergies, bacterial or fungal infections, and hair coat
quality. Recommendations are made for improved flea and tick prevention, including the
newest products on the market (see "New Medications" – Comfortis).
Our ear exams involve the video otoscope which allows for a better understanding of ear
disease and the nature of the cause. In many instances, we can make further recommendations
concerning deep ear flushes, medications, and nutritional counseling.
Because we are really in the game to prevent problems, we advocate yearly wellness blood
testing, including heartworm tests for dogs and cats, serum biochemical profiles, complete
blood counts, and thyroid testing. Many veterinary practices perform their fecal testing,
in-house, using out-dated and inaccurate methods. We send every fecal specimen to the
reference lab for the Zinc Centrifugation test. This test has been shown to be the most
sensitive and accurate methodology for screening for internal parasites.
We are never afraid to make recommendations concerning diets and nutrition knowing that what
we feed our pet is the most important issue to their health and wellness. (Please visit our
web page: "Foods and Nutrition" for a more, in-depth discussion concerning nutrition).
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