Routine Exams & Care

What We Check During a Routine Exam 

Every pet is different, and so is every exam. Our semi-annual wellness visits include a full physical evaluation that helps us spot small changes before they become big problems.  

Here’s what we focus on: 

• Weight, muscle tone, and joint function—to assess mobility, comfort, and age-related changes 
• Skin and coat condition—looking for dryness, allergies, hot spots, or parasites 
• Eyes, ears, and oral health—checking for signs of infection, vision or hearing loss, and early dental disease 
• Heart and lungs—listening for murmurs, irregularities, or signs of respiratory issues 
• Abdominal health and lymph nodes—checking for internal abnormalities or swelling 
• Anal glands—we’ll check for signs of impaction or discomfort and perform expression if needed to prevent irritation or infection 
• Behavior and energy levels—helping us understand what may be going on beneath the surface

We also talk with you about any recent changes in appetite, movement, or behavior that might need attention. 

Vaccinations & Parasite Prevention 

Vaccines are an important part of keeping your pet healthy—and protecting other pets and people, too. We’ll help you stay current on core vaccines (like rabies and distemper), as well as lifestyle-based vaccines (like Bordetella or Lyme), based on your pet’s risk level. 

We also provide year-round parasite prevention, including safe and effective options for fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms.  

During your visit, we’ll review what protection makes the most sense for your pet and your lifestyle. 

Preventative Care That Adapts as Your Pet Grows 

Routine visits are also a chance to focus on nutrition, weight management, behavior, and other changes that come with each life stage: 

• For young pets, we’ll guide you through early development, spay/neuter timing, and socialization. 
• For adult pets, we monitor for subtle signs of illness and talk about habits, diets, and activity. 
• For senior pets, we shift to watching for age-related conditions like arthritis, weight loss, or cognitive changes. Nutrition becomes even more important here—especially with digestive sensitivities or changing energy needs. 

Let’s Talk Teeth 

Dental disease is one of the most common (and overlooked) health issues in pets. During routine exams, we assess teeth and gums for tartar, gingivitis, or discomfort that might not be obvious at home. 

If needed, we may recommend a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia to help prevent more serious health problems, like infection or tooth loss. It’s all part of keeping your pet happy, comfortable, and eating with ease. 

Routine Care, Simplified

If you\'re looking for a way to stay consistent with your pet’s care while managing costs, we offer PAWS Plans.  

It’s proactive care with fewer surprises—so you can focus on what matters most: your time together. 

Learn more about our plans here

Spay & Neuter Planning 

Spaying and neutering are part of responsible, long-term care—and they’re something we’re happy to discuss during your pet’s routine exam. We’ll talk about the ideal timing based on breed and lifestyle, what the procedure involves, and how it benefits your pet’s overall health and behavior. 

Routine exams are a commitment to your pet’s quality of life.  

We are proud to be your partner in care, from puppyhood to golden years and every stage in between. 

Time for your pet’s next checkup?  

Schedule a visit with our Care Companions.