Wellness care plan

• A wellness exam is an overall general health assessment that may include blood tests, urinalysis, and parasite screening.
• A wellness exam is recommended for most pets at least annually.
• We recommend wellness exams at least every 6 months for senior pets and pets with chronic health issues.
• A wellness exam can help ensure your pet's health and detect early stages of disease.

What Is a Wellness Examination?

A wellness examination is a complete physical examination along with diagnostic testing that may include bloodwork, urinalysis, and checking for common parasites. In many cases, a wellness examination can help detect the early stages of disease.

What Does a Wellness Exam Include?

Wellness programs vary depending on the species, age, and health needs of the patient. Most wellness exams include a complete physical examination, which is a nose-to-tail inspection for any abnormalities. During the exam we use special equipment, including a stethoscope to listen to the heart and lungs, an otoscope to view the inside of the ears, and an ophthalmoscope to examine the eyes. We will also feel all over your pet’s body for lumps and bumps. In addition, we will check your pet’s vital signs (temperature, pulse, and respiration) and record your pet’s current weight.

We also perform testing on samples of blood, urine, and stool during a wellness exam. The blood test may include a complete blood cell count (CBC) and a chemistry panel. These tests can help determine if your pet has problems such as anemia, infection, or organ disease. Other tests, such as a thyroid evaluation, may be helpful, depending on the physical examination results and patient history.

Depending on your pet’s age, current medical condition, and medical history, our vets may recommend additional tests as part of your pet’s wellness examination.

What Is a Wellness Exam Used For?

A wellness examination is an important part of preventive health care for pets in all stages of life, from puppies and kittens to senior pets. If your pet seems to be young and healthy, a wellness examination is a good way to detect changes such as weight gain or loss, dental disease, or other subtle changes that may not be evident at home.

For any pet, especially senior pets, a wellness examination is a good way to detect early onset of disease. Early diagnosis and treatment of diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can greatly improve the overall health and well-being of your pet.