Routine Pet Wellness Exams
At Angel City Animal Hospital, we believe that regular health check-ups are the cornerstone of a long, happy life for your pet. Our comprehensive wellness exams are designed to evaluate your pet's overall health, detect potential issues early, and establish a healthy baseline.
Routine wellness visits allow our experienced veterinarians to identify diseases in their earliest stages, often before your pet shows any visible symptoms. Early detection translates to more effective and less costly treatment options. Whether you have a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or a wise senior pet, regular wellness check-ups are vital.
What to Expect During a Wellness Exam
We customize our exam routines and discussions based on your pet's age, breed, lifestyle, and unique health needs. Our thorough nose-to-tail examinations include:
❤️ Vitals Check
Weight, temperature, pulse, and respiration to establish a healthy baseline for future visits.
👁️ Eye & Ear Exam
Checking for signs of infection, vision loss, or parasites.
🦷 Dental Evaluation
Assessing tartar buildup, gum health, and identifying early signs of dental disease.
❤️ Heart & Lungs
Listening carefully for murmurs, arrhythmias, or abnormal lung sounds.
🩺 Abdominal Palpation
Checking for abnormalities or sensitivities in the internal organs.
🦴 Joint & Mobility
Assessing for arthritis or orthopedic concerns, especially in our senior pets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wellness Exams
Find answers to common questions about routine check-ups for your pet.
How often should my pet have a wellness exam?
We recommend annual wellness exams for most healthy adult dogs and cats. However, puppies, kittens, and senior pets (typically over 7 years of age), as well as pets with chronic health conditions, should be examined more frequently—usually every 6 months.
What should I bring to my pet's wellness appointment?
Please bring any previous medical records (if it's your first visit with us), a list of your pet's current medications and supplements, and the brand name of the food they eat. It's also helpful to bring a fresh stool sample so we can test for intestinal parasites.
Do indoor cats really need annual wellness exams?
Yes, absolutely. Even strictly indoor cats are susceptible to certain health issues, such as dental disease, obesity, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism. Regular exams help us monitor weight changes and detect subtle signs of illness that cats are notoriously good at hiding.
What is the difference between a wellness exam and a sick visit?
A wellness exam is a routine check-up when your pet appears healthy. Its goal is early detection and maintaining health. A sick visit is scheduled when your pet is showing symptoms of illness or injury, and the exam focuses specifically on diagnosing and treating the current problem.
Will my pet receive vaccinations during their wellness exam?
If your pet is due for any core or non-core vaccinations, they will typically be administered during the wellness exam. Our team will review your pet's vaccination history and lifestyle to recommend an appropriate, personalized vaccination schedule.
Ready to Schedule a Wellness Exam?
Ensure your pet's long-term health and happiness. Early detection is key to a long, healthy life.