Wellness Care FAQ’s

Pet wellness care, or primary pet care, includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, and regular health screenings to keep your pet healthy and catch any issues early, when it is usually most treatable/manageable.

Wellness care helps detect health problems early, prevent diseases, and maintain your pet’s overall health and quality of life. Regular exams allow us to monitor your pet’s health trends over time.

For most pets, an annual wellness exam is recommended. However, puppies, kittens, senior pets, and those with chronic illness may need more frequent visits.

A wellness exam typically includes a physical examination by one of our veterinarians, vaccinations, parasite screening, blood tests, including heartworm/tick disease screening, a heartworm/flea and tick preventative recommendation and discussions about your pet’s diet, behavior, and lifestyle.

Depending on your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle, the vaccinations your pet needs can vary.  Canine vaccines include rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, leptospirosis, influenza, Lyme vaccination and kennel cough (Bordatella). Cats often receive vaccines for rabies, feline distemper, and feline leukemia (if they have contact with the outdoors and other cats).

Your pet needs to be protected from fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites.  We will recommend the best products based on your pet’s needs, lifestyle and environment.

Yes!  THIS IS AN OFTEN OVERLOOKED AREA OF WELLNESS CARE!!  Dental cleanings and prophylaxis is crucial for preventing periodontal disease, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart, kidney and liver disease. Annual cleanings with us at ValuePetVet, regular at-home brushing, dental chews, and oral rinses will help maintain your pet’s oral health throughout the year!

The right diet depends on your pet’s age, size, breed, activity level and overall health. Consult with one of our veterinarians to choose the best food and feeding routine for your pet.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key. Avoid overfeeding and monitor your pet’s weight regularly. Our veterinarians can provide guidance on portion sizes and activity levels.

Screenings such as blood tests, urinalysis, and heart health checks help detect conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and heart disease early. During your pet’s exam, we will advise you which tests are appropriate.

You know your pet best, so watch for signs of illness or pain, which can include changes in appetite, behavior, energy levels, or bathroom habits. If you notice any unusual symptoms, schedule a visit with us as soon as possible.

Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can improve outcomes, reduce suffering, and be more cost-effective than treating advanced illnesses.

If you have any other questions or concerns about your pet’s wellness care, please call us to schedule a wellness exam and consultation or book your appointment directly online on our website.