Wellness Exam

A wellness exam is a routine checkup for your pet, designed to assess their overall health and well-being. These regular visits are essential for preventing health problems by catching them early. They help your vet keep your pet healthy and happy at every life stage.

What Happens at a Wellness Exam?

During a wellness exam (usually annually or bi-annually), your vet will perform a thorough physical examination, checking everything from nose to tail:

• Eyes, Ears, Mouth: Examining for any signs of infection, disease, or dental issues.
• Skin and Coat: Assessing for allergies, parasites, or other skin problems.
• Heart and Lungs: Listening for any abnormalities.
• Abdomen: Palpating to check for organ health.
• Joints: Evaluating mobility and checking for arthritis or other joint issues.
• Neurological Function: Assessing reflexes and coordination.
• Weight and Body Condition: Determining if your pet is at a healthy weight.

Your vet will also ask you about any changes in your pet's:

• Appetite and Water Intake: Changes can indicate underlying health problems.
• Urine and Bowel Habits: Checking for any irregularities.
• Activity Levels: Noting any decrease in energy or mobility.
• Behavior: Discussing any changes in behavior.

This discussion helps your vet identify any potential health risks.

Depending on your pet's age, lifestyle, and the physical exam findings, your vet may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Bloodwork: To assess overall health and organ function.
• Urinalysis: To check for urinary tract infections or other kidney/bladder issues.
• Fecal Tests: To check for intestinal parasites.
• Dental Evaluations: To assess dental health.
• Heartworm/Tick Tests: To screen for these diseases.
• Vaccine Titer Tests: To check immunity levels.

During the exam, you'll also discuss:

• Parasite Prevention: Updating and refilling prescriptions.
• Medications/Supplements: Reviewing current medications and discussing any new needs.
• Vaccinations: Administering core vaccines to keep your pet protected.
• Nutrition and Weight Management: Getting advice on the best diet and portion sizes.
• Dental Care: Discussing proper dental hygiene.
• Activity Levels: Getting recommendations for appropriate exercise.
• Behavioral Enrichment: Discussing ways to stimulate your pet mentally and physically.

Why are Wellness Exams Important?

• Early Disease Detection: Catching problems early makes treatment more effective.
• Health Baselines: Establishing a baseline helps track changes over time.
• Disease Prevention: Keeping vaccinations up-to-date and preventing parasites.
• Personalized Care: Addressing your pet's specific needs based on their lifestyle.
• Stronger Bond: Regular visits strengthen the bond between you, your pet, and your vet.
• Reduced Stress: Familiarity with the vet makes future visits less stressful for your pet.
• Improved Quality of Life and Longevity: Wellness exams contribute to a happier, healthier, and longer life for your pet.