Sick Pet Exam
When your dog or cat is very sick, a regular veterinary exam may only focus on the problem at hand. At Palo Verde Pet Clinic, we focus on the health of your pet as a whole, examining all 12 body systems and making preventive recommendations for your pet’s best health.
Read about the 12 body system exam and other frequently asked questions below!

When a pet is sick, a more extensive look at one or more body systems is considered best practice.
Diagnostic testing, like x-rays and bloodwork, operate like a window to see inside the body and give valuable information about the body’s inner workings.
At Palo Verde Pet Clinic, we believe in diagnosing before we treat.
In the long run, this saves you time and money compared to the trial and error approach. It also saves your pet possible suffering while waiting for one of many treatments to work.
Does my cat or dog need a sick pet exam or is it an emergency?
If an animal is sick, the severity of the problem will determine the degree of urgency for you as a pet parent. If your pet is mildly ill or just seems “off”, a sick pet exam will probably solve the problem.
These are 8 common signs of illness that require a sick pet exam.
Change in eating habits.
A reduced appetite can be triggered by an illness or even stress. Excessive thirst could signal diabetes.
Change in weight.
A sudden weight loss or weight gain may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Change in social habits.
If your pet is hiding or interacting with people or other animals more or less frequently, it could be a sign of illness.
Change in elimination habits.
Changes in urinating or eliminating could signal a gastrointestinal illness or disease, parasite infection or a urinary tract infection.
Vomiting.
Some animals throw up occasionally, but if it’s happening more frequently or it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s time to call the vet.
Coughing, sneezing, discharge.
Discharge from eyes, ears and nose or a persistent cough should always be evaluated because it could signal a contagious respiratory disease.
Hair loss or itchiness.
These symptoms could be related to fleas, ticks or even allergies, but could also indicate an infection.
Lethargy or trouble standing.
If moving is painful for your pet it could be caused by anything from old age, heart disease, arthritis or other conditions.

If signs of a health problem seem severe, suddenly worsen, are associated with bleeding, or persist for more than 24 hours, it should be considered an emergency situation for your pet.

have a pet
emergency?
Why Choose Palo Verde Pet Clinic?
We take into consideration the whole well-being of your four-legged family members. We focus on wellness and prevention as well as diagnosis and treatment. We’ll work with you to find the best solutions, not just the easy ones.
Our team of dedicated veterinarians are pet parents too. They want your pet to receive the best care possible, just like they care for their own fur kids!
Prevention
is the best
medicine
Palo Verde Pet Clinic is our first animal clinic in Yuma focused solely on pet wellness and preventive care. If you’re looking for an experienced veterinary staff and outstanding support for your beloved pet, contact us today!

3325 S Avenue 8E
Suites B3 & B4
Yuma, AZ 85365
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