There’s no such thing as “just an exam.” A wellness exam is one of the most valuable appointments your pet will have all year, and it’s the foundation of a long, healthy life. These routine visits let our team get to know your pet when they’re feeling their best, so we can catch subtle changes early, answer your questions, and build a care plan tailored to their needs.
Comprehensive Wellness Exams for Dogs and Cats in Kearney, MO
Pets age far faster than we do, and they’re experts at hiding when something is wrong. A lot can change in a single year, which is exactly why regular wellness exams matter so much. During these visits, our veterinarian performs a thorough, nose-to-tail evaluation to catch potential problems before they become serious. Many health issues that are difficult and costly to treat once advanced can be managed easily when caught early. Rather than waiting until your pet is visibly unwell, wellness exams take a proactive approach that can add both years and comfort to your pet’s life, especially as they move into their senior years.
What Happens During a Wellness Exam
Every wellness exam is a top-to-tail check of your pet’s overall health. Our veterinarian will typically:
- Check the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, including the teeth and gums
- Listen to the heart and lungs
- Feel the abdomen and lymph nodes for anything out of the ordinary
- Assess the skin and coat
- Check weight and body condition
- Evaluate joints and mobility
We’ll also talk with you about your pet’s diet, behavior, activity level, and anything you’ve noticed at home. Depending on your pet’s age and health, we may recommend additional screenings such as bloodwork or a fecal test, along with the right vaccines and parasite protection. You can read more about those on our preventative care page.
How Often Does My Pet Need a Wellness Exam?
The right schedule depends on your pet’s age and health. As a general guideline:
- Puppies and kittens need a series of visits in their first months for exams, vaccines, and parasite prevention as they grow.
- Healthy adult dogs and cats should be seen at least once a year.
- Senior pets and those with chronic conditions benefit from twice-yearly visits, since changes can develop more quickly at this stage of life.
Our team will recommend the schedule that’s right for your individual pet.
Ready to keep your best friend happy and healthy? If you have any questions about wellness exams or would like to schedule a visit, call us today at (816) 476-4760.