One of the most essential steps in caring for your pet is a regular visit to the veterinarian. Whether the trip consists of recommended vaccinations or simply to check up on your animal’s current health, a professional wellness check is also necessary for preventive care to keep your companion happy and safe. Below are four top reasons to schedule your annual veterinarian visit today.

Why Yearly Trips to the Veterinary Clinic Are Important

1. Prevent Trouble

Annual veterinary visits allow your vet to catch trouble early. This includes anything from minor illnesses and dental issues to something more serious such as cancer. Because your pet can’t tell you himself, you may have a hard time knowing if he is not feeling well, and some symptoms are hard to detect. A veterinarian’s thorough check is your best way to diagnose early and keep your pet as healthy as possible.

2. Stay Current

Every year, advances in veterinary care and medicine change. These developments can greatly improve your animal’s health, whether it is a new vaccine, updates to dietary requirements, or a change in how certain conditions are treated. As technology progresses, pet preventive care becomes more efficient, which helps you learn how to provide the right nutrition, vitamins, and medication for your pet’s individual needs.

3. Account for Age

Cats and dogs do not age at the same rate as humans. One year for a person is about five to seven for your furry companion. When you skip an annual vet appointment, it is akin to skipping many years at once. Because their aging process is more rapid, it is best that a veterinarian sees your pet yearly so any age-related conditions are detected and treated early.

4. Set a Baseline

Annual visits that include bloodwork give your pet’s doctor a baseline to check against every subsequent year. They will have a record of what is normal for your dog or cat, and if something changes, they can take further tests to see what is wrong. They can also detect a slow progression of a condition or if there is a more aggressive problem brewing.

Choosing the right animal hospital for your pet is critical to keeping them healthy. At Pet Center Ltd. in Columbia, MO, the veterinarians and staff will ensure your pet receives quality, compassionate care no matter the reason for the visit, and they’ve been providing these services to Boone County pets for 30 years. Besides annual wellness appointments, the veterinary clinic also provides pet boarding and microchipping services as well as dental care. Call (573) 445-3000 or visit their website to learn more about their services.