(847) 966-3080
North Shore
Veterinary Clinic
The Most Important Thing Your Vet Will Do
It may not seem obvious why, but the physical exam is the most significant service that Dr. Johnson will provide. We have many other services at our disposal, including the abilities to perform blood work, ultrasounds, radiographs (x-rays), ...etc. However, even though all of these other procedures give very detailed information about specific aspects of your pet, it is the physical exam that tells Dr. Johnson which of them would be most beneficial to further help your pet.
The results of a physical exam tell a veterinarian how your pet is actually doing. Any additional information must be interpreted in this light. For example, your pet has just had a chemistry panel and the results show highly elevated liver test values. However, your pet may have any of a variety of symptoms from a lack of appetite and lethargy to , or perhaps no symptoms at all. These clinical signs (symptoms) reveal how the elevated liver tests actually affect your pet and when taken in conjunction, describe what medical conditions your pet may or may not have. (Yes, it is just as important to know what health issues your pet does not have as well as the ones he does.)
A comprehensive physical examination is just as it sounds, Dr. Johnson will look over every aspect of your pet. This includes everything from eyes and ears, teeth, the skin and coat condition, to joint mobility and behavioral issues. But this is only half of the story. You must tell us the other half. You watch your pet at home and know his behavior patterns, how well he eats, whether or not he's having accidents inside, ...etc. Obviously, this is information we cannot possibly know, especially if it involves behavioral issues. With this information (known as the "history"), Dr. Johnson can better arrive at a diagnosis and help your furry loved one.
Assuming that we do not find anything of concern, you can go home knowing your pet is happy and healthy. If however, you pet has some issues that need to be further evaluated or treated, then Dr. Johnson will make recommendations that he believes are in your pet's best interest. These may include blood work, an ultrasound, radiographs (x-rays), ...etc.
