Dog Wellness Exams

How often should your dog have wellness exams?

Most adult dogs benefit from an annual wellness exam. However, for dogs aged seven and older, or those managing chronic health conditions, we typically recommend biannual exams to ensure optimal health and early detection of any changes.

What does the physical exam include?

During your dog’s physical exam, we assess overall alertness and behavior, followed by a thorough evaluation of key health indicators. This includes examining the mouth, gum color, and teeth for signs of dental disease; checking the eyes and ears for any abnormalities; and evaluating the skin and coat for signs of irritation or poor condition. We listen to the heart and lungs, palpate the abdomen to assess internal organs, and examine the joints for any signs of pain or discomfort. We also determine your dog’s body condition score to ensure they’re maintaining a healthy weight.

Which vaccines does my dog need? 

Dogs require several core vaccines to protect against serious and potentially contagious diseases. Rabies is legally mandated and essential for public health. Our core vaccine also includes protection against distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.

We strongly recommend adding the leptospirosis vaccine to the core set, especially if your dog tolerates it well. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through standing water or contact with wildlife, and it can lead to liver or kidney failure. It’s also zoonotic, meaning it can spread to humans.

Depending on your dog’s lifestyle, we may also recommend additional vaccines such as Bordetella (kennel cough), canine influenza, or Lyme disease—particularly if your dog is exposed to other dogs, frequents boarding facilities, or lives in tick-prone areas.

What type of tests does my dog need?

We recommend an annual fecal exam to screen for intestinal parasites, as well as a heartworm test to detect heartworm disease. This test also includes screening for tick-borne infections such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma.

In addition, we advise routine bloodwork to assess your dog’s overall health. A complete blood count (CBC) evaluates red and white blood cell levels, while a chemistry panel checks organ function. We also recommend a urinalysis to detect signs of infection or kidney issues that may not be outwardly visible.

What parasite prevention does my dog need?

We recommend year-round heartworm, flea, and tick prevention to protect your dog from serious health risks. Heartworm disease remains a significant concern, and consistent parasite control helps prevent infestations that can impact your dog’s well-being.

Additionally, we routinely screen for intestinal parasites and may recommend preventive treatment based on your dog’s test results and lifestyle.

What food should my dog eat?

We’ll also discuss your dog’s diet during their visit to ensure they’re receiving a well-balanced nutrition plan tailored to their size, age, and life stage. We generally advise against raw and grain-free diets, as these have been associated with potential health risks and nutritional imbalances.

Does my dog need dental care?

Dental health is an important part of your dog’s overall well-being. During the exam, we’ll carefully assess your dog’s teeth and oral tissues for signs of disease, infection, or discomfort, and provide appropriate recommendations. This is one of the key reasons we advocate for annual wellness exams - to catch any changes in oral health early.

Should I ask my vet about my dog's behavior during the wellness exam?

We encourage questions about your dog’s behavior - it's an area we’re deeply passionate about. Our goal is to support a strong, healthy bond between you and your pet, and to help ensure your dog enjoys the best possible quality of life. Behavioral concerns are an important part of overall wellness, and we’re here to help.

Why are wellness exams important?

We really believe in the value of wellness exams. They help us catch problems early - things that might be causing pain or illness your dog can’t tell you about - and they’re a great way to stay ahead with preventive care. Dogs don’t have words, so these visits are one of the best ways we can speak up for their health and happiness.

What should I do to prepare for my dog's wellness exam?

To help us make the most of your visit, we recommend writing down any questions or concerns you have ahead of time. That way, we can be sure to address everything that matters to you.

It’s also helpful to bring your dog in a little hungry—maybe a smaller breakfast or none at all—so they’ll be more eager to enjoy the treats we use to help them feel comfortable.

If you’re able, please bring a fresh fecal sample, and depending on your dog’s health history, a urine sample may be useful too. These tests help us get a full picture of your dog’s health and make the visit smoother.