Wellness Exams

Routine examinations of your pet by a veterinarian are the best way to keep your four-legged family member happy and healthy. Regular check-ups can spot health problems early on, before they become more difficult-and more expensive-to treat. These exams also present an opportunity for you to discuss behavioral issues, nutritional recommendations and other issues with your veterinarians. During a routine exam, the veterinarian will: listen to your pet's heart and lungs; check your pet's teeth, ears and mouth; evaluate your pet's vision and examine your pet's abdomen, skin, joints and muscles.

Vaccinations

Many common canine and feline diseases can be prevented through the use of vaccinations. However, not all pets need the same vaccinations. At Boxford Animal Hospital, we tailor all vaccine programs to each individual pet's needs. We offer both one year and three year canine Distemper/Parvo virus vaccines where appropriate. We recommend yearly Leptospirosis and Lyme disease vaccinations, due to the prevalence in our area. Rabies vaccinations are done in accordance with Massachusetts state law and may be good for one to three years. For most cats, we recommend yearly Distemper vaccines and, if outdoors, yearly Feline Leukemia vaccines. We also recommend annual screenings for heartworms, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma and Lyme disease for dogs. In addition, we recommend an annual stool sample screening for all patients.

Microchipping Your Pet

Each year, millions of pets go missing, and many never return to their homes. Traditional collars and tags are not enough to guarantee your pet will make it home safely. If your pet is lost, you can increase the chance that he or she will return home by implanting them with a microchip. About the size of a grain of rice, the microchip is implanted just under your pet's skin, usually near the shoulder. The procedure is quick and painless and is similar to a routine vaccination. Each microchip contains vital information about your pet, including its name, address and owner's contact information. That information is stored in a national database. When a pet with a microchip is found, the microchip is scanned and the information is used to contact the owner. Boxford Animal Hospital uses the AVID microchip system.

Geriatric Wellness Program

More pets are living longer lives, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine. However, as your pet ages, he or she will need special care. Our geriatric wellness program is designed to detect health problems before they become more serious. As part of the program, we offer diagnostic screening tests, prescription diets, regular exams and other services for your senior pet.

Dentistry

Good dental care is about more than just keeping your pet's teeth and mouth clean and healthy. Without proper dental care, your pet could face periodontal disease, gingivitis and other dental problems, which can be very painful. Periodontal disease-the build up of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gums-can lead to more serious health problems, including damage to the liver, heart, kidneys and other organs. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital to your pet's overall health!

Boxford Animal Hospital offers a full-service dental cleaning program. During a routine dental cleaning, your pet will be placed under anesthesia. Your pet's teeth will be scaled, removing all of the tartar and plaque, and then polished. A veterinarian will then examine your pet's teeth and oral cavity. Sealant is then applied to the teeth, keeping the teeth clean. Our veterinarians and staff also will instruct you in how to best care for your pet's teeth at home.