How Often Do Pets Need Wellness Exams?

Regular wellness exams can ensure your pet stays in excellent health. They give veterinarians regular opportunities to check pets for early symptoms and signs of disease and to monitor their overall health. 

 

Your responsibility as a pet owner is to care for your pet throughout their life. A critical part of pet care is taking them to the vet for wellness exams. Veterinarians help you make informed decisions about appropriate care for your pet’s age, breed, and other factors. 

 

Ideal Frequency of Pet Wellness Exams

Regular veterinary exams are essential for your pet’s health. However, many pet owners are confused about how often their animal friends need them. Generally, veterinary care professionals recommend an annual complete physical. 

However, some pets may require more frequent visits, and those at certain ages (such as very young or very old) need more attention. Your veterinarian will recommend a visit frequency based on your pet’s current health and age. 

Regular wellness checks enable veterinarians and pet owners to track their pets’ development and growth. They also provide an opportunity to discuss health issues or concerns. Thus, knowing what to expect may be just as important as when to schedule an appointment for your pet.

What to Expect 

The first part of a pet wellness check involves a consultation with the veterinarian. It is the best time to bring up any issues concerning your pet’s behavior, health, and overall well-being. Your vet will likely ask you several questions about your pet and any preexisting conditions if you do not have any concerns or thoughts to raise. 

Your veterinarian will recommend how best to care for your pet and his/her needs, depending on your discussion. You may receive advice on diet, exercise, or necessary supplements. 

What Constitutes a Wellness Exam?

A physical checkup allows your veterinarian to examine your pet for abnormalities or problems. That allows for early detection and immediate treatment of any issue(s). Some of the assessments conducted during the visit include the following:

 

• Your pet’s vitals, i.e., temperature, respiration, and pulse

• A whole-body check to ensure organs are in good shape

• Checking the nails to ensure they are not overgrown or causing discomfort

• Inspecting your pet’s ears, mouth, and eyes

• Listening to your pet’s heart and lungs

• Evaluating joint mobility for symptoms of arthritis and similar conditions
  
   

Your veterinarian may run some tests, including urine, fecal, blood, and parasite tests. Depending on the test results, X-rays or other diagnostics may be necessary to identify potential internal health problems that are otherwise undetectable.

 

Will Your Pet Receive Preventatives or Vaccines?

The vet may administer vaccines, boosters, or other preventatives (protecting against fleas, ticks, Heartworms, and/or intestinal parasites) your pet may require during the wellness exam. Heartworm prevention is important 12 months out of the year in Texas.  Such measures will help keep your pet safe from communicable diseases and free of parasites.   

Regular wellness assessments are crucial to catching signs of illness and diseases early.  They could save you money compared to treating advanced conditions. They will help ensure your pet lives a healthier, happier, and longer life. 

For more information on pet wellness exams, visit us on our website. True Animal Vet in The Woodlands, Texas is coming in 2023 to offer you urgent and primary veterinary care.