Yearly Exams?

[GuineaGuy521]

I adopted Edgar and Norm from my local humane society and so they came with 2 certificates for free vet exams.

We found an exotics/small animal vet close to our home and took in Norm and Edgar Surprisingly the vet was EXTREMELY complete with her exam. Both Norm and Edgar were just under 750grams.

Obviously, we'd go back ot the vet if either Norm or Edgar became sick, but what about yearly wellness exams? The vet said we could do what we wish - some people only do focused exams when the guinea pigs are sick and some do yearly check ups.

I'm just curious what the norm is? No pun intended

[SFailed186]

Personally, we only take our piggies to vet if they need it.
I don't see it as necessary to take them to the vet yearly as long as they are healthy and maintaing a good weight. You should weigh your pigs once a week to make sure that they don't lose or gain any significant weight, as it could be linked to a health problem or sickness (lose).

[loveurpetalways]

It's not really necessary. Vet bills can start to add up. Their are both pros and cons. Pros: You can always make sure your piggy is nice and healthy :)
Cons: Can be costly yearly, and sometimes not necssary

I personally only take them to the vet when I notice something different. Then they get an exam and i'll follow up with the vet if I need to.

Otherwise it's entirely your desision. If you have the money or have money saved up, then go for it. Again though to me I don't believe it's fully necessary.

[NanSm4]

I definitely think it is good you utilized your certificates. Sounds like a good vet to me, not just out to get you in there for unnecessary visits. Annual visits are not a bad idea. They can help you be assured that everything is still okay. However, I think the BEST thing is knowing your pets and knowing what is normal for them. Also as this site advocates, feed a good diet. A good diet and good care will go a long way in helping prevent illnesses. That being said, not all things can be prevented with good care and diet. I weigh Prince weekly. I hold him several times a day and spend a lot of time with him. I know what looks normal for him. His weight took a dip recently when I had to go into the hospital for surgery. My partner took excellent care of him, but I think possibly the stress of not having the normal routine stressed him. Now that I am back to caring for him he is back up to his normal weight. When his weight dipped my immediate thought was to get him to a vet fast. Instead I waited one week and watched him carefully. This is more my rambling than helpful I am sure. Just do what you think is best. If you want annual exams are good, but may not be necessary.