Scheduling an annual health exam is second nature to most humans, but pets can benefit from these kinds of check-ups, too. Since animals can't show you when something is wrong or feels off, a yearly exam will allow a veterinarian to make sure they are healthy. These appointments will keep your pets comfortable and happy for many years to come and catch anything that should be dealt with immediately. Here are several reasons why your pet benefits from a yearly health exam.

What Are the Benefits of an Annual Health Exam for Your Pet?

1. Catch Diseases Early

During an annual exam, your veterinarian might take blood samples or run tests to make sure the pet is healthy. These tests will show the doctor if a disease or virus has appeared, so they can find a treatment to fix the problem to the best of their ability. It can be difficult to detect illnesses in animals early on, especially because many cats and dogs do not show pain the way humans do. These visits also give the vet a spectrum to gauge future appointments off of, so if a pet gets sick down the line, the doctor will know about its previous conditions. 

2. Monitors Their Mental Well-Being

In an annual exam, the veterinarian might also monitor how your pet interacts with its surroundings, as well as the doctors or nurses. These reactions are a good indication of an animal's state of mind and well-being. Seeing your pet once a year allows the vet to keep an eye on their personalities and moods, so if there is a big shift in how they act, it can be addressed properly. A change in their mental state might indicate a problem, so doctors look at their emotions as well as their physical properties during an annual visit.

3. Maintains Dental Health

When you take your pet to the veterinarian's office, the staff will look at their teeth and mouths. If they see a problem, they can recommend a cleaning or vital procedure to treat the issue. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, but brushing your pet's teeth at home isn't always easy. Dental problems can create health risks, and an annual checkup will allow the vet to keep track of these situations and correct them before it leads to complications or further damage to their oral health.

If your pet is due for an annual health exam, turn to the friendly staff at Yankee Hill Veterinary Hospital in Lincoln, NE. Since 2005, they have helped pet owners get the care they need for their beloved animals. They provide services ranging from health and dental exams to surgical care. They work with a variety of species, including dogs, cats, and exotic animals, and provide each patient with advanced technology and options to keep them happy and healthy. For more information, call (402) 421-8111 or visit their website.