- COMPASSIONATE PET CARE
Dog Wellness Exams Proactive Care for Every Stage of Life
Regular dog wellness exams help catch health concerns early, track your dog’s overall condition, and support a longer, healthier life. At Paw Haven Animal Hospital, we provide thorough wellness checkups, preventive guidance, and personalized care for dogs from puppyhood through the senior years.
What Happens During a Dog Wellness Exam?
A dog wellness exam is a nose-to-tail checkup designed to assess overall health, identify early warning signs, and guide preventive care. During the visit, the veterinary team reviews your dog’s lifestyle, behavior, and any concerns you’ve noticed at home.
- Temperature, weight, and body condition check
- Eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, and throat evaluation
- Heart, lungs, lymph nodes, and abdominal exam
- Skin, coat, paws, and musculoskeletal assessment
- Discussion of lifestyle, diet, and preventive care needs
Why Routine Wellness Visits Matter
Preventive care is one of the best ways to protect your dog’s health and quality of life.
Early Detection
Spot potential problems before they become more serious.
Better Long-Term Health
Support mobility, comfort, and day-to-day well-being.
Personalized Prevention
Tailored vaccine, parasite, dental, and nutrition guidance.
Stronger Health Baselines
Track changes over time and make better care decisions.
When Additional Testing May
Be Recommended
Some dogs benefit from testing beyond the physical exam, especially puppies, seniors, or pets with symptoms or abnormal findings. Wellness diagnostics can help reveal concerns earlier and support more informed treatment decisions.
Heartworm testing
Fecal testing for parasites
Baseline bloodwork
Urinalysis
X-rays or ultrasound when needed
Ear cytology or skin testing when indicated
Recommended Exam Schedule
- Puppies Visits can begin as early as 6–8 weeks to start exams, vaccines, and preventive care.
- Adult Dogs Most dogs should have a wellness exam at least once a year.
- Dogs Needing Closer Monitoring Some dogs benefit from exams every 6 months, especially seniors or pets with ongoing health needs.
What to Bring to Your Visit
Preventative care is one of the best investments you can make in your dog’s future. We’re here to partner with you and provide the care and guidance your dog needs to live a long, happy life.
- A short update on behavior, appetite, energy, and bathroom habits
- A list of current medications or supplements
- The name of your dog’s food or diet
- Promotes long-term health and vitality
Wellness Recommendations
You May Receive
Recommendations are tailored to your dog’s age, breed, lifestyle, and overall health.
Core vaccines
Lifestyle vaccines
Heartworm prevention
Parasite prevention
Weight management
Home dental care
Nutrition guidance
Behavior monitoring
Frequently asked
Are wellness exams important for senior dogs?
Yes. Senior dogs are more likely to develop hidden health changes, so routine exams and screening help monitor comfort, organ health, mobility, and quality of life.
What is the difference between preventive care and a sick visit?
Preventive care focuses on keeping your dog healthy and catching problems early. A sick visit focuses on diagnosing and treating a current illness or symptom.
Will my dog need tests during a wellness visit?
Not always. Your veterinarian may recommend testing based on your dog’s age, symptoms, lifestyle, or exam findings.
Does my dog still need a checkup if they seem healthy?
Yes. Wellness exams are designed to catch subtle issues early, even when your dog appears normal at home.
