What is involved in a dog's wellness exam?

The most important part of a wellness exam is the complete physical examination. This allows us, as veterinarians, to identify any physical issues with your dog. We focus on all the areas that you might not usually scrutinize. Additionally, vaccines and routine laboratory tests for parasites, both internal and blood-borne, are typically part of the process.

Dr. Larry Nieman
Neighborhood Vets Mobile Care

How does dog wellness impact the longevity of my dog?

By preventing common infectious diseases and dealing with parasites, we can significantly increase their lifespan.

How soon should I bring my pet in to see a veterinarian for a wellness exam?

It is recommended to bring your pet for a wellness exam annually.

Will additional testing be needed beyond a wellness exam?

Beyond routine testing, it depends on your pet's environment and age. In senior dogs, there are issues that cannot be picked up in a physical exam, but can be identified through laboratory tests. Your vet will advise when these additional tests are necessary.

How will a veterinarian assess dog wellness?

Assessment is through a physical exam and a history taken from you, the pet owner. This information can highlight changes in behavior or environment that may indicate a problem.

How are dog wellness recommendations likely to be made by my vet?

A vet will usually recommend blood and urine tests, particularly for senior pets, along with core vaccinations.

What are some possible environmental factors that can affect dog wellness?

This is largely dependent on your dog's lifestyle. If your dog goes to daycare or roams freely in the neighborhood, these factors can impact their wellness. Environmental factors are considered when taking a history during your annual exam.

Why is early detection of health issues in my dog so important?

Early detection allows us to intervene and treat. Our practice's mission is to increase your dog's longevity; this is what we aim for during an annual exam.

What is geriatric dog screening?

This term refers to senior dog care. It involves laboratory tests to look for problems that may not be detected during a physical exam.

Will my vet suggest allergy testing for my dog?

This is largely dependent on your vet and your dog's symptoms. Skin issues and itching can be significant. If your dog needs allergy testing, your vet will be able to provide it.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (913) 912-2319, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram

Dog Wellness Exams - FAQs

Dr. Larry Nieman
Neighborhood Vets Mobile Care

What does a veterinarian look for during a dog wellness exam?

During a dog wellness exam, the main thing a veterinarian looks for is abnormal physical findings through a thorough physical exam.

What do I need to bring to a wellness exam?

You just need to bring your dog along with a sample of their feces if it's an annual exam. It's important for checking for internal parasites, which can be contagious to people.

Are wellness exams for dogs optional?

While it's ultimately your decision, your dog relies on you for its care. Because of this, it's recommended that you take your dog to the veterinarian at least once a year.

How long do dog wellness exams usually take?

A dog wellness exam typically takes between 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish.

How do dog wellness exams influence subsequent treatments?

Dog wellness exams provide critical information and help us notice any abnormal findings. If there are abnormalities in the physical findings or laboratory work, we can intervene early.

What are the baseline diagnostic tests and how do they help my dog?

The baseline diagnostic tests conducted every year include a stool sample check for internal parasites, and a blood test for heartworm disease and tick-borne diseases.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (913) 912-2319, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram