by BlueBloodVet | Oct 10, 2025 | Health & Wellness Checks, Pet Owner Education
We all love our pets deeply — they bring joy, comfort, and companionship into our lives. But love alone doesn’t keep them healthy.
At BlueBlood Veterinary, we often see pets suffering from conditions that could have been prevented or treated early with routine veterinary check-ups. Regular vet visits are more than just vaccination appointments — they’re lifesaving opportunities to spot hidden problems before they become serious.
In this article, we’ll explore why preventive care matters, what happens during a check-up, and how consistent visits can add years of health and happiness to your pet’s life.
1. The Hidden Value of Regular Veterinary Visits
Pets age faster than humans — one year for us can equal five to seven for them. That means their bodies change more quickly, and diseases can progress silently.
Regular check-ups allow your vet to:
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Detect illnesses early (before symptoms show)
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Monitor weight, diet, and behavior
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Keep vaccines and parasite control up to date
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Offer tailored advice for your pet’s lifestyle and age
A single check-up can make the difference between simple treatment and a medical emergency.
2. What Happens During a Routine Vet Check-Up
A typical check-up at BlueBlood Veterinary is a full-body experience — gentle, thorough, and stress-free for your pet.
Here’s what we do:
| Examination Area |
What We Check |
Why It Matters |
| Eyes, ears, mouth |
Infections, redness, dental issues |
Early signs of systemic illness |
| Skin & coat |
Allergies, parasites, infections |
Reflects nutrition and immune health |
| Heart & lungs |
Heart rate, breathing sounds |
Detects murmurs or respiratory problems |
| Abdomen |
Liver, kidney, and organ health |
Identifies swelling or pain |
| Joints & muscles |
Mobility, stiffness |
Detects arthritis or injuries |
| Weight & nutrition |
Body condition score |
Prevents obesity or malnutrition |
These assessments allow us to create a personalized wellness plan for each pet.
3. Vaccinations: A Shield Against Deadly Diseases
Vaccinations are one of the cornerstones of preventive veterinary medicine.
Core vaccines for dogs include:
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Rabies
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Parvovirus
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Distemper
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Hepatitis
For cats:
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Rabies
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Feline panleukopenia
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Calicivirus
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Herpesvirus
At BlueBlood Veterinary, we customize your pet’s vaccination schedule based on age, lifestyle, and environment — ensuring maximum protection with minimal stress.
4. Early Disease Detection: Catching Problems Before They Escalate
Pets are masters at hiding pain. Often, by the time you notice symptoms, the disease has progressed.
Regular check-ups include diagnostic screening that can reveal:
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Kidney or liver disease through blood tests
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Diabetes via glucose monitoring
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Heartworm or tick-borne illnesses
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Tumors or cysts through palpation and imaging
Early detection means less suffering, lower costs, and better outcomes.
5. Senior Pet Wellness: Extra Care for Aging Companions
Older pets require special attention. At BlueBlood Vet, we recommend biannual check-ups for senior animals (7 years+).
During these visits, we monitor:
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Arthritis or mobility issues
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Organ function through lab work
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Dental and vision changes
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Cognitive or behavioral decline
With proper monitoring, your senior pet can remain active, comfortable, and happy well into their golden years.
6. The Role of Bloodwork and Diagnostic Tests
Blood tests are windows into your pet’s internal health.
Even if your pet looks fine, subtle changes in organ function can go unnoticed without diagnostics.
Common tests we perform:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks red/white cells for infection or anemia.
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Biochemistry Panel: Evaluates organ performance.
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Urinalysis: Detects urinary infections and kidney health.
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Fecal Exams: Screens for internal parasites.
Routine testing helps us act before illness becomes visible — truly preventive care in action.
7. Parasite Control: Keeping Pests Away All Year
Regular vet visits ensure your pet stays protected from ticks, fleas, worms, and heartworms — parasites that cause discomfort and transmit dangerous diseases.
BlueBlood Veterinary’s prevention protocol includes:
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Monthly topical/oral treatments
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Deworming schedules (every 3 months)
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Tick/flea checks during each visit
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Environmental guidance to stop reinfestation
Preventing parasites is far easier and cheaper than treating infestations later.
8. Dental Check-Ups: Beyond Brushing
Oral health is directly linked to organ health. During regular visits, our veterinarians inspect your pet’s mouth for early signs of dental disease — often invisible to owners.
We check for:
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Gum redness or swelling
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Loose or broken teeth
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Tartar buildup
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Oral tumors
Routine cleanings and professional scaling prevent infections that can spread to the bloodstream.
9. Behavior and Lifestyle Counseling
Pets’ behaviors can often indicate underlying health or emotional issues.
Regular visits help our vets guide you through challenges like:
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Anxiety and aggression
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Excessive licking or scratching
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Dietary adjustments for picky eaters
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Exercise plans for overweight pets
Our holistic approach ensures your pet’s physical and emotional well-being.
10. Spaying, Neutering & Reproductive Health
Routine check-ups are the best time to discuss spaying or neutering, which helps:
Our experienced surgeons perform these procedures safely and compassionately — always putting your pet’s comfort first.
11. The Financial Wisdom of Preventive Care
Many pet owners worry that frequent vet visits are costly. But here’s the truth:
Preventive care saves money.
Treating early-stage illness costs far less than managing advanced disease. For instance:
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Dental cleaning costs less than oral surgery.
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Vaccinations are cheaper than hospital stays for parvovirus.
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Parasite prevention is more affordable than treating tick-borne disease.
Think of check-ups as an investment in your pet’s future — and your peace of mind.
12. How Often Should You Schedule a Check-Up?
| Pet Age |
Recommended Frequency |
Focus Area |
| Puppies & Kittens (0–1 year) |
Every 3–4 weeks |
Vaccines, deworming, nutrition |
| Adults (1–7 years) |
Every 6–12 months |
Wellness exams, parasite control |
| Seniors (7+ years) |
Every 6 months |
Bloodwork, joint health, chronic disease monitoring |
At BlueBlood Vet, we offer flexible packages that make regular check-ups affordable and easy to remember.
14. FAQs — Routine Vet Check-Ups
Q1: How often should I take my pet for a check-up?
At least once a year for healthy adults; every 6 months for seniors or pets with chronic conditions.
Q2: What if my pet seems perfectly healthy?
Many diseases develop silently. Regular check-ups catch them early — when treatment is easiest.
Q3: Are annual blood tests necessary?
Yes, especially for aging pets. They reveal hidden issues like liver or kidney problems before symptoms appear.
Q4: Can I combine check-ups with vaccinations?
Absolutely. Most pet owners do both in the same visit — it saves time and stress.
Q5: What’s included in a BlueBlood Vet wellness exam?
Physical exam, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental check, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your pet.
Q6: Do you offer reminders for next visits?
Yes! We send friendly reminders so you never miss your pet’s next wellness milestone.
15. Healthy Pets, Happy Hearts
Regular vet visits aren’t just appointments — they’re lifelines.
They give your pet the best chance for a long, healthy, joyful life — and give you peace of mind knowing you’re doing everything right.
At BlueBlood Veterinary, we’re passionate about preventive care.
Every check-up is a chance to build trust, catch disease early, and celebrate your pet’s well-being.
🐾 Book your pet’s wellness check today with BlueBlood Veterinary — where modern medicine meets compassionate care.
by BlueBlood Vet | Oct 8, 2024 | General wellness, Pet Owner Education
Choosing the right dog food is crucial for your pet’s health and well-being. A balanced diet ensures that your dog gets the necessary nutrients to stay active, healthy, and happy. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best dog food options available and how they can benefit your furry friend.
About this item
- This delicious food is enriched with natural ingredients which support healthy skin and coat of your dog
- The combination of vitamins and other organic minerals maintain healthy bones and stronger teeth
- Increased water content to maintain healthy digestive system, Container Type – Pouch
- Real chicken, chicken liver and eggs keep your pet active and agile all day long
- A wholesome meal which supports puppy’s brain & eye development
- age_range_description: baby. breed_recommendation: all breed sizes
₦780.00 – ₦18,720.00Price range: ₦780.00 through ₦18,720.00
Wet dog food is an excellent choice for dogs who need extra hydration or have difficulty chewing dry kibble. Drools Adult Wet Dog Food, made with real chicken and chicken liver chunks, is packed with high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle development and overall health. This wet food is not only delicious but also provides the necessary nutrients to keep your dog energetic and strong.
PEDIGREE Protein Plus Dog Food:
Pedigree wet dog food cans are made with natural ingredients, vitamins and minerals to be 100% complete and balanced. Pedigree canned PROTEIN + dog food cans contain 25% more protein than other Pedigree cans.
₦3,400.00 – ₦3,600.00Price range: ₦3,400.00 through ₦3,600.00
Protein is a vital component of a dog’s diet, supporting muscle growth, repair, and overall health. PEDIGREE Protein Plus Dog Food is formulated to meet these needs with a high protein content. This food is designed to provide balanced nutrition, ensuring your dog gets the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It’s an excellent choice for active dogs who need that extra boost of energy.
Royal Choice Dog Wet Food for All Life Stages:
Canned dog food for puppy and adult dogs all life stages
One of the challenges pet owners face is finding a food that suits their dog throughout different stages of life. Royal Choice Dog Wet Food is designed for all life stages, making it a convenient option for pet owners. This food provides balanced nutrition, ensuring that puppies, adults, and senior dogs get the nutrients they need. It’s especially beneficial for households with multiple dogs of different ages.
Conclusion: Choosing the right dog food can make a significant difference in your pet’s health and happiness. Whether you opt for Drools Adult Wet Dog Food, PEDIGREE Protein Plus Dog Food, or Royal Choice Dog Wet Food, you can be confident that you’re providing your dog with high-quality nutrition. Remember, a well-fed dog is a happy and healthy dog!
by BlueBlood Vet | Aug 14, 2024 | Pet Owner Education
Traveling with your pet can be a complex process, especially when you’re dealing with international travel. As a pet owner in Nigeria, it’s crucial to understand the unique challenges and requirements involved in taking your furry friend on a trip. This blog aims to provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to ensure that your pet’s travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
The success of your pet’s travel experience largely depends on how well you prepare in advance. Starting your preparations months before the actual travel date is essential to avoid any last-minute issues.
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Plan Ahead: Start by researching the specific requirements of your destination country. These might include vaccinations, health certificates, quarantine requirements, and import permits. It’s also important to check the pet travel policies of your chosen airline, as these can vary significantly.
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Create a Timeline: Once you have all the necessary information, create a timeline for completing each task. This timeline should include vaccination dates, vet appointments, permit applications, and crate training sessions for your pet.
Understanding the Legal Requirements:
Every country has its own set of rules for allowing pets in and out of the country. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in your pet being denied entry or, in some cases, quarantined.
- Vaccinations and Health Certificates: Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date and meet the requirements of your destination country. A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is usually mandatory and should be issued close to your departure date.
- Import/Export Permits: Obtain the necessary permits for exporting your pet from Nigeria and importing them into your destination country. This process can take time, so it’s important to start early.
- Microchipping: Many countries require pets to be microchipped before travel. Ensure your pet’s microchip is ISO-compliant and properly registered with your contact information.
Choosing the Right Travel Crate:
Your pet’s travel crate is their personal space during the journey, so it’s important to choose one that is safe, comfortable, and airline-approved.
- IATA-Approved Crate: Make sure the crate meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The crate should be well-ventilated, sturdy, and spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Crate Training: Introduce your pet to the travel crate well before the trip. Allow them to explore and become comfortable with it by placing treats, toys, and bedding inside. Gradual acclimatization will help reduce stress on the day of travel.
Managing Travel Anxiety:
Travel can be stressful for pets, especially if they’re not used to it. There are several steps you can take to help your pet stay calm and comfortable during the journey.
- Exercise: Give your pet plenty of exercise before the flight. A tired pet is more likely to rest during the journey.
- Comfort Items: Pack your pet’s favorite blanket or toy in the crate. Familiar smells can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more secure.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed your pet a light meal a few hours before departure. Avoid feeding them right before the flight to prevent nausea.
Conclusion:
Traveling with your pet from Nigeria requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the legal and logistical requirements. By preparing well in advance and following the guidelines provided in this blog, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for your furry friend. Blueblood Veterinary is here to support you with expert advice, veterinary services, and everything else you need to make your pet’s travel experience a success.
by BlueBloodVet | Jun 15, 2022 | Vaccination & Preventive Care, Pet Owner Education
Image Credit: Michelson Philanthropies
Pets are like kids. They are cute, fuzzy, demanding and as slippery. One minute they are following you gladly by their leash, the next minute they are triggered by a moving object in the bush and jetting off across the street. Maybe you are about to visit the vet but your furry baby, familiar but terrified about the routine, decides to escape and hit the street.
Fortunately, your pet is microchipped, you think. So, you contact your vet about your missing pet and ask if they can help find it with their microchip scanning device. Well, to answer as your vet would, NO.
Why, you ask. A microchip is simply a tool for identifying an animal and not a GPS tracker. It is a tiny piece of silicon material inserted under an animal’s skin, in between the shoulder blades. It carries a unique identification number that is linked to an animal owner’s contact information saved on a secure database. The microchip scanner on the other hand, is a device that reads and confirm your pet’s microchip ID number.
For instance, when a missing pet is found and taken to a shelter or other veterinary facility, the pet will be scanned using the microchip scanner which in turn display the ID number. This ID will be entered into the database to extract the owner’s contact information. And voila! your pet is back home.
Thus, a microchipped animal needs to be found first before the microchip ID is confirmed. Therefore, when putting out a missing pet flyer for your missing pet, be sure to check that you include the microchip ID number in addition to other physical characteristics such as colour, markings and breed of the animal.
Author: Dr Zaharat Kadri-Alabi