How Often Should a Dog Have a Wellness Exam?

Routine pet wellness exams are essential to the health of your dog. A routine check-up can uncover current health issues and conditions your pet might be susceptible to in the future. At Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, New Jersey, we would like to see your dog regularly to monitor your pet's health and provide proper veterinary care when necessary.

How Often Do Puppies Need a Pet Wellness Exam?

Your puppy will need to be seen by a veterinarian several times in their first four months of life. Your vet will administer vaccines for rabies and distemper-parvo. Your puppy will also begin a regimen of heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. During a routine check-up, your vet will monitor your dog's growth and check in on behaviors like house training and socialization.

How Often Do Adult Dogs Need a Pet Wellness Exam?

After your dog's first birthday, you need to schedule a routine check-up with a veterinarian once a year. The vet will take a blood sample to look for heartworms. Rabies and distemper-parvo boosters usually need to be administered every three years. You may opt for other preventative pet care like a vaccine to protect against kennel cough. Your vet will watch for changes in your dog during an annual pet wellness exam.

What About Senior Dogs?

Once your dog is seven years old or older, they are considered a senior dog. We recommend your senior dog visit us twice a year for routine check-ups. Senior dogs have to be monitored more carefully for some of the natural effects of aging, like arthritis and kidney disease. Early detection helps your veterinarian provide your dog with the best possible treatment.

Schedule a Pet Wellness Exam Today

Routine veterinary care leads to a happier and healthier dog. Schedule an appointment today at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, New Jersey, by calling our office or using our convenient online appointment request form.