Regular wellness exams are the cornerstone of preventive veterinary care and play a crucial role in keeping your beloved pets healthy and happy. At Bellevue Animal Clinic, we believe that prevention is always better than cure, and these routine check-ups allow us to detect potential health issues early, when they're most treatable.
Why Wellness Exams Matter
Wellness exams are not just routine check-ups – they're comprehensive health assessments that help us establish a baseline for your pet's health and monitor any changes over time. These visits allow our veterinarians to:
- Detect early signs of disease before symptoms become apparent
- Monitor weight and body condition to prevent obesity-related issues
- Assess dental health and prevent periodontal disease
- Update vaccinations to protect against preventable diseases
- Discuss nutrition and exercise for optimal health
What Happens During a Wellness Exam
Physical Examination
Our veterinarians perform a thorough physical examination that includes:
- Eyes, ears, and nose - Checking for signs of infection or abnormalities
- Mouth and teeth - Assessing dental health and oral hygiene
- Heart and lungs - Listening for any irregularities in heart rhythm or breathing
- Abdomen - Palpating organs to check for any abnormalities
- Skin and coat - Looking for signs of parasites, allergies, or skin conditions
- Joints and mobility - Evaluating range of motion and checking for arthritis
Diagnostic Testing
Depending on your pet's age and health status, we may recommend:
- Blood work to assess organ function and detect early disease
- Urinalysis to check kidney function and detect urinary tract issues
- Fecal examination to screen for intestinal parasites
- Heartworm testing for dogs to detect this serious condition
Age-Appropriate Care
Puppies and Kittens (0-1 year)
Young pets require more frequent visits to monitor their rapid growth and development:
- Initial examination within 48 hours of bringing your pet home
- Vaccination series starting at 6-8 weeks of age
- Parasite prevention and treatment
- Spay/neuter consultation typically around 6 months of age
Adult Pets (1-7 years)
Healthy adult pets typically need annual wellness exams:
- Annual physical examination
- Core vaccinations as recommended by your veterinarian
- Dental care including professional cleanings as needed
- Parasite prevention year-round
Senior Pets (7+ years)
Older pets benefit from more frequent monitoring:
- Bi-annual wellness exams to catch age-related changes early
- Comprehensive blood work to monitor organ function
- Joint health assessment and arthritis management
- Specialized nutrition for senior pets
Schedule Your Pet's Wellness Exam
Don't wait for symptoms to appear – proactive care is the key to a long, healthy life for your pet. Contact Bellevue Animal Clinic today to schedule your pet's wellness exam. Our team is here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care that keeps your beloved companion healthy and happy for years to come.
Remember, your pet's health is our priority, and we're here to support you every step of the way in providing the best possible care for your furry family member.