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The Granby Animal Clinic, Inc.
National Pet Wellness Month
October is National Pet Wellness Month. The focus for this month is preventative health care and the early detection of problems associated with aging. Pets age faster than people. Dramatic health changes can occur in as little as three months in our dogs and cats.
The average year in a pet’s life is approximate to 6-8 years in our lives. As pets get older, they are at increased risk for diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer and other serious conditions.
Bringing your pet into the veterinarian twice a year helps to detect problems earlier, giving your veterinarian a better chance to treat existing problems and prevent other problems from becoming serious or even life threatening. We will be happy to send you a 6 month reminder at your request.
In addition to getting a thorough physical, it is beneficial to do some screening tests similar to what your doctor does during your routine physical. We offer many types of screening tests. The benefits of some of them follow:
E.R.D. Urine Test is an easy inexpensive screening test. It is run on a fresh urine sample. A positive on this test is an indication that protein is leaking through the kidneys and that your pet has some underlying disease(s) that should be investigated. ($20.00)
A CBC/Chemistry Panel/T4 is an excellent combination of screening tests similar to the blood work your doctor does during your routine physical. Done together they are a good deal ($81-savings of $61 off of individual prices).
CBC (complete blood count)-Checks for anemia, infection and inflammation. ($30.50)
Chemistry Panel—surveys the organ systems and the electrolyte balance—abnormalities on this test can show liver problems, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances, bone problems and problems with blood glucose regulation. ($60)
T4—blood test to check for thyroid disease which can be associate with immune dysfunction, heart disease, bowel problems, high blood pressure and weight problems. ($51.50).
Urinalysis—used in conjunction with the Chemistry panel helps to better evaluate the kidneys, can detect diabetes, infections, inflammation and cancer. ($18)
EKG can detect heart problems. This test should be considered in breeds that are prone to cardiac problems such as Boxers, Dobermans, and small breed dogs prone to mitral valve disease. ($25.00)
Glaucoma testing—glaucoma is often a slow onset disease that often leads to pain and blindness. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can help save your pet’s eyesight. Ask us for a list of breeds considered at increased risk. ($18.)
Blood pressure—routine blood pressure screening in our dogs and cats is usually reserved for pets with diseases that put them at high risk for high blood pressure, such as Diabetes, Hyperadrenalcortisism (Cushing’s), Hyperthyroidism, Renal Disease and Proteinuria.. ($20.00)
If you choose to do any one of the wellness screening test within 1 month of your pets wellness physical – we will gladly take 10% off of the price of the tests.
If you have any questions on preventative healthcare for your pet, please feel free to talk to a member of our staff or request to talk to the veterinarian.
(Prices are current as of 10/1/04, but are subject to change at any time.)