Does your puppy have a health check or an In-depth Health Check?

Did you know there is a big difference in health checks and exams for your furry friends? Here is a little run down that addresses some details that you may not have thought to ask about:

Basic Veterinarian Health Check:

Physical Examination:

• A basic health check typically begins with a thorough physical examination. The veterinarian observes the dog’s general appearance, gait, and overall demeanor.

• They listen to the heart and lungs using a stethoscope (auscultation) to detect any abnormalities.

• Palpation involves feeling specific areas of the body to assess muscle tone, joint health, and overall condition1.

• Heart Assessment:

• During a basic check, the veterinarian may identify heart murmurs or other noticeable abnormalities.

• However, this basic assessment does not provide detailed information about specific heart conditions.

• Eye Examination:

• Basic eye screening involves checking for obvious issues such as cataracts, corneal ulcers, or other visible abnormalities.

• It does not delve into specific genetic eye conditions that may affect the breed.

• Joint Evaluation:

• The veterinarian may perform a basic evaluation of the dog’s joints, including the knees (patellas).

• However, this assessment does not necessarily detect subtle signs of hip dysplasia or other orthopedic problems.

In-Depth Medical Examination:

Cardiac Evaluation:

• For a comprehensive assessment, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist performs auscultation and echocardiography.

• The goal is to detect heart murmurs, arrhythmias, and structural abnormalities.

• The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (CKCSC) recommends a cardiology clearance at age 2.5 years by a board-certified cardiologist before breeding2.

• Ophthalmologic Assessment:

• An in-depth eye examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist evaluates for inherited eye diseases.

• This includes checking for conditions like retinal degeneration, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy.

• Patella Luxation Screening:

• A thorough evaluation for patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) is crucial.

• The veterinarian assesses the stability of the patella joint.

• Breeding dogs should have no evidence of patellar luxation.

• Hip Dysplasia Radiographs:

• To assess hip health, X-rays are taken and submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

• A passing grade indicates healthy hips suitable for breeding.

While basic health checks provide a general overview, in-depth medical examinations are essential for dogs like Cavaliers if you want to minimize surprises. Responsible breeders adhere to the CKCSC guidelines, ensuring that only healthy dogs contribute to the next generation. Regular follow-up exams for hearts, eyes, and joints further promote the well-being of these beloved companions. Remember, a thorough examination is the key to maintaining the healthy furry friend!