Sick Visit

A sick visit is when you take your pet to the vet because they're showing concerning new symptoms. It's crucial to seek timely care for several reasons:

• Pain Relief: To ease your pet's discomfort.
• Diagnosis & Treatment: To identify the cause of the illness and determine the best course of action.
• Preventing Emergencies: To stop minor problems from becoming serious medical crises.
• Improved Recovery: To increase the chances of a full and speedy recovery.
• Return to Normal: To get your pet back to their happy, healthy selves.

What Happens at a Sick Visit?

The vet will perform a focused physical exam, concentrating on the specific symptoms you described when scheduling the appointment. For example:

• Stomach Issues: If your pet is vomiting or has diarrhea, the vet will examine their abdomen, checking for tenderness, hydration, and other signs of illness.
• Limping: If your pet is limping, the vet will carefully examine their legs, joints, and muscles.

Based on the physical exam and your description of your pet's symptoms, the vet may recommend further testing to pinpoint the exact cause of the illness. These tests might include:

• Bloodwork: To assess overall health and organ function.
• Urinalysis: To check for urinary tract infections or other kidney/bladder issues.
• Stool/Skin Samples: To identify parasites or infections.
• X-rays/Ultrasounds: To visualize internal organs and structures.

Once a diagnosis is made, the vet will create a treatment plan, which could involve:

• Medications: To treat infections, pain, or other conditions.
• Special Diet: To support recovery and manage certain health issues.
• Rest: To allow the body to heal.
• Other Therapies: Such as physical therapy or fluids.

You'll leave the appointment with clear instructions, including:

• Treatment details: How to administer medications, provide care, etc.
• Follow-up appointments: When to return for rechecks.
• Warning signs: What to watch for and when to contact the vet immediately.

The goal of a sick visit is to alleviate your pet's discomfort, resolve the underlying issue, prevent recurrence, and avoid complications. If your pet's symptoms worsen or don't improve, it's essential to contact your vet promptly.