Wellness Exams 101: How Routine Checkups Protect Your Pet

If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog or cat really needs an annual vet visit, you’re not alone. Many pet parents ask the same question. The truth is, wellness exams are one of the most important ways to keep your pet healthy, happy, and thriving for years to come.

A routine checkup isn’t just a quick look at your pet’s coat or teeth. At Wheatland Animal Hospital, we perform a full nose-to-tail exam that covers everything from eyes, ears, and nose, to teeth and gums, heart and lungs, lymph nodes, muscles, joints, abdomen, and coat. These exams give our veterinarians a complete picture of your pet’s health and help us catch subtle changes before they turn into serious problems.

Vaccines are a key part of disease prevention, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Depending on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle, we tailor vaccination schedules to protect against illnesses like rabies, FVRCP, DHLPP, Bordetella, Lyme disease, and heartworm. By combining vaccines, physical exams, and diagnostic testing, we give pets the best chance at a long, healthy life.

Wellness exams also allow us to monitor chronic conditions, detect kidney or liver problems, check thyroid function, and screen for early signs of infection. Early detection makes treatment easier, less stressful, and more effective - meaning fewer emergencies and more years of tail wags, purrs, and zoomies.

If it’s time for your pet’s next wellness exam, call Wheatland Animal Hospital at (630) 904-2020 to schedule an appointment.