Helping Your Pet to Live Longer

South Paw Animal Hospital provides a full range of preventive care services to help your pet live a longer, happier life. Sometimes cats and dogs hide the signs that something is wrong, so often changes in their health or behavior are overlooked. Preventative care can help detect any problems early before they become severe and costly.

At least once a year (preferably twice a year as pets age much quicker than we do), your pet should be seen for an examination. Dr. Marks will take a complete medical history, assess behavior, make nutrition recommendations, and review any known medical conditions. During the exam Dr. Marks will check your pet's eyes, ears, mouth (teeth) and skin/coat. She will listen to your pet's heart and lung sounds to check for any abnormalities. She will then make preventative care recommendations based on your pet's physical exam and lifestyle.

Vaccinations are a key part of keeping your pet healthy. There are core vaccinations and elective vaccinations that might be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle. Yearly wellness blood work is vital in monitoring how your pet is functioning on the inside. Ideally, a fecal analysis (stool sample) should be checked for intestinal parasites every 6 months. A blood test (for dogs) to check for Heartworm disease, Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichia should be performed yearly.