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American Animal Hospital Association
AVMA: American Veterinay Medical Association
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Wellness Exam

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A wellness examination is a routine medical examination of a patient that is apparently healthy, as opposed to an examination of a patient that is ill. A wellness examination may also be called a 'check-up' or a 'physical examination'. The focus of a wellness visit is the maintenance of optimal health.

How often should my pet have a wellness examination?

The answer to this question depends on your pet's age and current health status. For example, early puppyhood wellness exams are recommended on a monthly basis, while for the average adult dog annual wellness examinations are the norm, and for middle aged or geriatric dogs semi-annual examinations are recommended.

Our doctors are the best position to recommend how often your pet should have a wellness examination, based on its specific species, breed, health status and lifestyle.

For more information about what to expect during an exam, please read one of the following articles:

What Should I Bring?

Prepare yourself with some basic information:

  • Brand and type of food that your pet eats
  • Whether the family feeds any table scraps
  • What, if any, supplements are given
  • List any noticed problems

If you or your pet is new to us, you can save time by filling out and bringing these forms with you:

Anxious Dogs

Many dogs are afraid when they come to the veterinary office and may show this fear as submissive urination, panting, drooling, avoidance, growling, snapping or biting. Most dogs that are aggressive at the veterinary office are exhibiting fear related aggression.  This can be eliminated or reduced through systematic desensitization.