A white fluffy dog looks out over a crystal blue lake surrounded by pine trees.

New Clients

Welcome!

Thank you for considering joining our Nordhoff family! We're so happy to meet you! We know that pet parents aren't just bystandards, you are the most important collaborator in your pet's healthcare. That is why it's so important to us that our doctors and staff to be the right fit for you and your family.

Give us a call at 818-882-6111 to schedule your initial exam. Please fill out our registration form ahead of your visit here: Registration Form. Please attach any of your pet's records that you have. The more information about your buddy's history the better!

At the exam, you'll get a chance to meet our veterinarians and staff and your buddy will get a complete and comprehensive physical. What does this entail? Read on for insight into what the doctor is observing about your pet.

Comprehensive Physical Exam

Weight and Body Condition

Your pet's weight is one of the first things we'll check when you come in to our office, be it for an exam, a vaccine, or even a nail trim. Significant weight gain or loss can be an early warning of disease, so we believe it's extremely important to check your pet's weight at every visit.

Obesity is the most common nutritional problem in pets. Your pet's overall body condition will be evaluated and appropriate recommendations of diet and other nutritional needs will be made.

TPR

Temperature, pulse, and respiration are all assessed. Elevation in any of these can be a sign of infection, inflammation, illness or pain. The doctor will also listen to your pet's heart for any murmurs, gallops, or arrhythmias, and the lungs for crackling, wheezing, or signs of congestion.

Eyes and Ears

Ocular disorders such as severe conjunctivitis, cataracts, and glaucoma can sometimes be prevented if detected early enough. Thorough examination of the ear canals can prevent painful ear infections and loss of hearing. The ear canal of pets is anatomically different from humans with the majority of the canal hidden from view with the naked eye. Tumors, grass seeds, excessive wax, and ear mites are commonly found in the lower part of the ear canals.

Skin and Hair Coat, Muscles, and Joints

Dull, dry, brittle hair, cessation of grooming (in cats), and hair loss can all indicate an underlying illness. Flea infestations can lead to serious diseases such as anemia. The doctor will observe your pet's coat for any of these changes. She will also fully palpate your pet from nose to tail to check for any abnormalities in the skin, muscles, or joints. Tumors, skin tags, warts, joint problems such as swelling or pain, and your pet's strength and gait will all be noted and recommendations will be made accordingly.

Oral Health

Taking care of your pet's mouth is one of the most often overlooked, but extremely important, parts of their overall care. Regular dental care can help add up to 5 quality years onto your pet's life, not to mention making those kisses a lot sweeter!

The doctor will examine your pet's teeth, gums, palate, and tongue to evaluate dental and oral health. She will observe the amount of tarter on the teeth, grade the progression of periodontal disease, as well as look for any abnormalities such as oral tumors or resorptive lesions. For more information on oral care, please visit our dental page here: Pet Dental Health

Call us today to set up your introductory exam and allow us to welcome you and your buddy to the family!