Wellness exam

A wellness exam is a scheduled visit when the dog is healthy, rather than sick. The vet checks eyes, ears, teeth, skin and coat, heart and lungs, belly, joints and lymph nodes, weighs the dog and scores body condition. Vaccines, parasite prevention, and tests such as heartworm and fecal checks are usually updated at the same time.

It matters because dogs hide illness and age faster than people, so a yearly exam can find dental disease, weight gain, lumps or a heart murmur before signs appear. Puppies need several visits in their first months, and seniors often benefit from visits twice a year.

Bring a list of questions and notes on appetite, thirst, stool, energy and any behavior change. It is also the moment to talk about diet, dental care, spay or neuter timing and prevention plans.