Wellness Care

The Veterinary Teaching Hospital provides comprehensive wellness services including physical examinations, vaccinations, and the prevention of parasites (eg, worms and fleas; blood screening). Our goal is a long and healthy life for your pet and wellness care is the primary way to achieve that objective. After initial puppy or kitten vaccinations have been completed, an annual wellness care check is recommended.

Physical Exam:

The physical exam enables the veterinarian to detect problems early when therapy is most effective. Many medical conditions can be detected during a physical exam before the owner is aware of any problem. Early detection, recognition, and timely intervention of medical conditions are key to a long healthy life.

Vaccinations:

Vaccinations protect your pet against the spread of disease (eg, parvo virus, distemper, leptospiros and others). A vaccination protocol will be recommended for your pet, as not all vaccinations are given on an annual basis.

Parasite prevention:

Internal parasites: Heartworm, tapeworm, round and hook worms are commonly found in St. Kitts and Nevis. Puppies and kittens should receive a series of de-wormings and adult cats and dogs should have a health assessment and fecal test every 12 months. You will be advised by the veterinarian which monthly preventative is recommended for your pet.

External parasites:  Fleas often carry tapeworms and ticks may carry several diseases, including Ehrlichia. You will be given a choice of monthly topical or oral preventatives.

Blood screening:

We recommend that a complete blood profile be conducted as part of the wellness care program on an annual basis. Pets with chronic illness or on medications may require more frequent checks.

Blood screening can detect hidden diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disease, and anemia which cannot be detected based upon symptoms or a physical exam alone.