Our basic physical examination consists of the following:

1. a detailed consultation with the doctor about the pet’s general health, its health history, diet, behavior, appearance, any problem areas, etc.

2. a comprehensive examination of the animal’s

		nose, eyes, ears, mouth (gums, teeth, tongue, lips, and palate)
		heart and lungs (using a stethoscope)
		skin and hair analysis
		legs, feet, joint and muscle analysis
		lymph nodes
		abdominal palpation

3. weighing of the animal

Vaccination Information

CATS AND DOGS

Rabies - this vaccine is required by Georgia law and, if given annually, protects your cat or dog against rabies.

CATS

1. Feline Leukemia (FELV) - The feline leukemia virus is a major cause of death in cats, and is transmitted primarily via saliva injected through puncture wounds obtained in cat fights . The FeLV vaccine protects the huge majority of cats, and is strongly recommended for cats who are exposed to open populations of cats.

2. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia) - this disease causes the white blood cell count to fall far below normal. Since white blood cells are so important in defending a cat against infections and disease, a drop in the quantity of white blood cells renders the cat very vulnerable. Additionally, this disease causes severe damage to the lining of the stomach and intestines. This virus is shed in all body secretions, particularly feces, of infected cats; thus, the virus can be transmitted by ingestion, or transferred to a susceptible cat via contaminated water, feed bowls, or even on shoes. The Distemper vaccine provides a strong immunity to this disease, though the effects of the vaccine decrease with time. Thus, annual boosters are strongly recommended.

3. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) - this virus, sometimes called the feline AIDS virus, is transmitted primarily through bite wounds that occur in cat fights. The long-term prognosis of a cat with this virus is poor; however, infected cats may experience prolonged periods of reasonably good health.

DOGS

1. Distemper/Hepatitis/Leptospirosis/Parvovirus (DHLP) vaccine - This 4-way vaccine protects against the four following potentially fatal diseases:

		distemper (signs include upper respiratory problems, diarrhea, twitching)
		hepatitis (an infectious viral liver disease)
		leptospirosis (an infectious virus that can affect the kidney, liver, and other organs), and
		parvovirus (a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy).

HEARTWORMS