Exam Components
A wellness exam typically includes a head-to-tail physical examination. The veterinarian will check your pet's eyes, ears, teeth, skin, heart, lungs, abdomen, and joints. Weight is recorded and compared to previous visits to track trends.
The exam also includes a discussion of your pet's diet, activity level, and behavior. This helps your veterinarian understand your pet's overall lifestyle and identify any areas that may need attention.
Common Screenings
Depending on your pet's age and health, the veterinarian may recommend bloodwork, fecal testing, or other screenings. These tests can detect early signs of disease before symptoms appear.
Senior pets may benefit from more frequent screenings. Puppies and kittens often have parasite checks as part of their wellness visits. Your veterinarian will explain which screenings are recommended and why.
Questions to Bring
Wellness visits are a good time to ask questions. Consider bringing notes on any changes you've noticed in appetite, energy, behavior, or bathroom habits. If your pet is on medications or supplements, have the names and dosages ready.
You may also want to ask about nutrition, dental care, parasite prevention, or upcoming vaccinations. Writing questions down beforehand helps ensure you don't forget anything during the visit.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a wellness exam take?
Most wellness exams take 15–30 minutes, depending on your pet's needs. If vaccinations, bloodwork, or other procedures are performed, the visit may be longer. We schedule enough time to address your questions and concerns.
How often should my pet have a wellness exam?
Most adult dogs and cats benefit from an annual wellness exam. Puppies, kittens, and senior pets may need more frequent visits. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet's age, health status, and lifestyle.
What if my pet is nervous at the vet?
Let our team know. We can take a slower approach, use treats for positive reinforcement, and work to make the visit as stress-free as possible. For very anxious pets, we may discuss options such as calming techniques or pre-visit strategies.