21The animal is given a complete physical exam. All major body systems are evaluated for illness or abnormalities. Many conditions can be detected by a veterinarian on a routine exam that might otherwise go undetected until a serious situation develops. Some clues may prompt the veterinarian to recommend laboratory testing to determine if an underlying condition is present. Just as physicians recommend yearly physicals for their patients, our pets need to be examined at least once a year to maintain their health.