Because your pet ages more quickly than you do, it is important that you take your pet to the veterinarian at least once a year and even more frequently as your pet gets older. Taking your pet to the veterinarian once a year is the same as if you were to see a physician for a physical exam only once every six to eight years. So much can change with regard to your pet's physical health in such a short amount of time, you can't afford to have your pet miss even one exam.

Annual wellness exams give your veterinarian the chance to evaluate your pet's overall health and to detect problems before they turn into serious illnesses. Your pet can't tell you in words how he is feeling, and veterinarians must rely on a thorough physical examination and your observations of your pet in order to determine if a pet is truly healthy. As part of the wellness examination our veterinarians may recommend additional lab work or diagnostic tests. Early detection is the ideal way to care for your pet by allowing us to diagnose potential diseases before they become serious. Many diseases can be caught early, and with proper treatment will allow you and your pet many more happy years together.
These annual exams are also time to discuss changes in your pet's lifestyle.

1. Have you moved?
2. Added another pet?
3. Does your pet go to dog parks, a boarding facility or “doggy day care”?
4. Does your pet have trouble getting up in the morning?

These questions and more help your veterinarian to make informed recommendations on your pet’s health care.

Do not underestimate the importance of your pet's annual wellness examination. Taking your pet to the veterinarian once a year or more means you are helping your pet live a longer and healthier life!