Wellness Exams For Dogs & Cats

Regular veterinary wellness exams are key to keeping your dog or cat healthy and happy. These exams focus on detecting issues early, which can help you avoid costly treatments and improve your pet's chances of successful outcomes.

During these checkups, your veterinarian will evaluate important areas like vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental health, and nutrition. The Riverside Animal Hospital team is here to help your pet live a happy and healthy life!

How often should my pet have a wellness exam?

Puppy and Kitten Wellness Exams

New pet wellness exams are important to make sure your new furry family member is in good health. We recommend bringing your puppy or kitten in for monthly wellness exams, starting at 6-8 weeks old until they turn 16-20 weeks old. These new pet checkups are crucial during the early stages of their lives, as puppies and kittens grow quickly!

Adult Pet Wellness Exams

Annual pet exams are recommended for healthy adult dogs and cats.

Senior Pet Wellness Exams

For senior and geriatric dogs, wellness exams are recommended every six months to help manage age-related concerns and keep them comfortable.

What to expect during your pet’s wellness exam

During your pet’s wellness exam, our veterinarians will cover several key areas to ensure your pet is in good health.

Pet Lifestyle & Medical History

We’ll ask about your pet’s diet, exercise, water intake, behavior, bathroom habits, and overall lifestyle to get a clear picture of their daily life.

Physical Exam

Our veterinarians will examine the following during your pet’s wellness exam:

• Weight and Body Condition: Checking your pet’s weight and assessing its body condition score (BCS)
• Vital Signs: Measuring body temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate
• Mouth and Teeth: Checking for signs of dental disease or other oral issues
• Eyes and Ears: Checking for signs of infection or abnormalities
• Skin and Coat: Inspecting for parasites, lumps, or skin conditions
• Mobility: Checking joints, muscles, and bones for signs of pain or arthritis
• Abdomen: Feeling the abdomen to check organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines
• Heart and Lungs: Listening to the heart and lungs for anything out of the ordinary

Preventative Care

Based on your pet’s exam and history, our veterinarians may recommend preventive care, such as vaccinations, parasite prevention, nutrition guidance, and skin or coat care. We also provide advice on weight management, spaying or neutering, dental care, and microchipping to keep your pet healthy.

Testing & Diagnostic Screenings

Your veterinarian might recommend additional tests to evaluate any health concerns more thoroughly, such as:

• Fecal Exam
• Bloodwork and Urinalysis
• Heartworm test 
• X-rays
• Ultrasound

Pet wellness exams near you

At Riverside Animal Hospital, we’re always ready to be your trusted partner in pet care. Ready to schedule your dog or cat’s next vet wellness exam? Call us at (843) 972-7847 or book an appointment online below!