New clients welcome! Limited time free first wellness exam (terms apply) - Book Today!



August is National Immunization Awareness Month - don't forget that routine lab work is just as vital! Early testing helps detect hidden issues, keeping your pet healthier, longer.

What You Can't See Can Hurt Them: The Importance of Preventative Lab Work

February is National Pet Dental Health Month - a great reminder that your pet's oral care is key to their overall health. Schedule a professional cleaning to keep their smile bright and healthy!

How Often Does Your Pet Need a Dental Cleaning? A Vet's Guide to Oral Health

As pets age, preventive health screenings become essential for early detection and effective management of chronic conditions. Learn how regular check-ups can enhance your senior pet's comfort, health, and quality of life.



Why Preventive Health Screenings Are Essential for Senior Pets

Starting the year with a new puppy or kitten? This guide covers everything new pet parents need to know - from vet visits and nutrition to training and safety - so you and your furry friend can thrive together.



First Steps for New Pet Parents: Caring for Your Puppy or Kitten in the New Year

March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month - learn how to protect your pets from hidden household dangers like toxic foods, plants, and chemicals. This guide covers key risks, emergency tips, and prevention strategies to keep your furry friends safe.



Toxic to Pets: Household Dangers Every Owner Should Know

Pine City Animal Hospital

about-us-page

embedded-reviews-section

our-history-section

our-teams-section

Proudly serving the citizens of Pine City and it's surrounding areas.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

career-page

Pine City Animal Hospital is dedicated to providing outstanding veterinary care for Pine City pets, offering exceptional veterinary care for every patient. Your pet's health and comfort are our highest priorities.

amrv-career-about-section

amrv-career-section

amrv-contact-section

amrv-job-section

forms-page

form-section

landing-page

amrv-about-us-section

contact-us-section

cta-bar

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

nav-cta-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

news-page

our-history-page

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-2

payment-section-3

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

As our beloved pets age, their health needs evolve, making preventive health screenings more crucial than ever. Senior pets, generally those over seven, are more susceptible to various health issues, and catching these problems early can significantly improve their quality of life. Explore why preventive health screenings are essential and how they can benefit your aging furry friend.Why Preventive Health Screenings Matter –&nbsp;<ol><li>Early Detection of Health Issues – Senior pets are at a higher risk for developing chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer. Regular screenings allow us to detect these issues before they become severe. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatments, potentially slowing disease progression and improving your pet’s overall well-being.</li><li>Tailored Health Management – As pets age, their health needs become more complex. Preventive screenings help tailor a personalized health management plan that addresses your pet’s specific risks and conditions. This plan might include changes in diet , <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="link" href="https://windyhillveterinaryhospital.ourvet.com/pet/">medication</a> , or lifestyle adjustments to suit your pet’s aging body better.</li><li>Improved Quality of Life- By identifying potential health issues early, preventive screenings can help manage symptoms before they impact your pet’s daily life. For example, early detection of arthritis can lead to pain management strategies that keep your pet comfortable and active.</li></ol>What Preventive Health Screenings Can Involve –&nbsp;<ol><li>Blood Work: Routine blood tests can provide information about your pet’s internal organs, hormone levels, and overall health. These tests help identify anemia, infections, or liver and kidney dysfunction.</li><li>Urinalysis: This test examines your pet’s urine for signs of kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. It provides valuable insights into how well your pet’s kidneys are functioning.</li><li>Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam allows the veterinarian to assess your pet’s overall health and check for any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in body condition. This examination is crucial for detecting issues not evident through tests alone.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://windyhillvet.com/pet-dentistry-smyrna-ga/">Dental</a> Check: Dental health is often overlooked but vital for senior pets. Regular check-ups can prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and systemic infections that affect other organs.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://windyhillvet.com/pet-diagnostics-smyrna-ga/">Imaging:</a> X-rays or ultrasounds can visualize internal structures, helping diagnose issues like tumors, joint problems, or abdominal abnormalities that are not always apparent through physical exams alone.</li></ol>How to Prepare for Your Pet’s Screening –<ul><li>Schedule Regular Visits: Aim for at least biannual vet visits for senior pets. This frequency ensures that any changes in health are monitored closely.</li><li>Provide a Comprehensive History: Share any changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or weight with your veterinarian. This information can be crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.</li><li>Follow Up on Recommendations: Follow your vet’s advice on any necessary treatments or lifestyle adjustments after screenings. Adhering to these recommendations can significantly impact your pet’s health and longevity.</li></ul>Conclusion – Preventive health screenings are a proactive approach to ensuring that your senior pet enjoys the best possible quality of life as they age. By detecting and addressing health issues early, we can help manage chronic conditions, prevent complications, and ultimately provide our aging companions a happier and healthier life. Regular check-ups are not just about managing illness; they’re about celebrating every moment with your pet and giving them the best care possible. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://windyhillvet.com/smyrna-ga-veterinary-appointment/">Schedule</a> a screening today and take the first step towards a healthier future for your cherished senior pet.

<noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-NJQPWBT"
height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript>

gtm_68d1156cba9101f1a8ee5022

<script>(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':
new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],
j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src=
'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);
})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-NJQPWBT');</script>

Stay up-to-date with Pine City Animal Hospital

Sign up for our newsletter to learn about new opportunities, team stories, and learning moments from Pine City Animal Hospital.

Connect With Us

Reach out directly to our Talent Team! We are happy to guide you through roles, culture, and everything in between.

Have Questions

We look forward to seeing you! Please use our booking widget below to book an appointment today! 

Pine City Animal Hospital accepts all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), cash, checks, CareCredit, and Scratch for your convenience.

We are pleased to offer access to several financing options.

Save time at your first appointment! Complete your client registration and media release form online before your visit.

Kerri Hutchinson

Desiree Hartgers

Maddy Schmidt

Holly Redepenning

375+

Proudly serving Pine City since 1977, trusted for years of compassionate, dependable pet care.

Open on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month - because pets don't just need care Monday to Friday. 

Weekend Care

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Billing

Client Forms

Download App

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team.

Get your pet's medications, food, and preventatives delivered straight to your door - fast and easy.


Pharmacy

Pharmacy Home Delivery

Not feeling like themselves? We're here to diagnose, treat, and help your pet feel better fast.

Illness/ Injury & Sick

Treat and prevent internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms with trusted care.


Deworming

Deworming & Parasite Control

From routine to advanced procedures, your pet is in skilled, compassionate hands every step of the way.


Pet Surgery

Spaying or neutering helps prevent health issues, unwanted litters, and certain behavior challenges.


Spay & Neuter

Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and more with year-round parasite prevention plans.


Parasite Prevention

Support your pet's health with professional dental cleanings, exams, and oral care you can trust.

Dental Care

Protect your pet from preventable diseases with customized vaccine schedules for every life stage.

Vaccinations

Keep your pet healthy with routine wellness exams, early detection, and personalized care plans.

Why Preventive Health Screenings Are Essential for Senior Pets

Recent Blog

Related Blog

Protect Your Pet from Spring Parasites: Fleas, Ticks & More

Adopt with Confidence: Top Tips for New Pet Owners This December

Senior Pet Emergencies: Know the Warning Signs

Pine City Animal Hospital FAQs