By: Dr. Kristi Kantz
When you think about taking your pet to the vet, your mind probably jumps straight to
shots—and maybe a few guilty glances from your dog or suspicious glares from your cat. But
the truth is that wellness visits are about way more than just vaccinations. In fact, regular checkups
are one of the best ways to keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and running zoomies well into
their golden years.
Here’s what your veterinarian secretly (or not-so-secretly) wishes every pet parent knew about
preventative care:
It’s Not Just About Vaccines
Yes, vaccines are important. But during a wellness exam, we’re doing a lot more than just
poking your pet with needles. We’re checking everything from nose to tail: their weight, teeth
(seriously, when’s the last time you peeked in your pet’s mouth?), vision, joints, skin, and even
their heart sounds.
We’re also asking about their lifestyle—are they a backyard adventurer? A couch potato? A
world traveler? We customize vaccine recommendations based on how your pet lives, not a
one-size-fits-all plan.
Your Pet Is a Master at Hiding Things
Animals are sneaky. They evolved to hide pain and illness, because in the wild, showing
weakness could get you eaten. (No pressure.) That’s why even if your pet seems totally fine at
home, there could be small changes happening under the surface—like a new heart murmur, an
aching joint, or a suspicious lump that deserves a closer look.
Early detection means early action—and early action often means fewer vet visits, less
medication, and a happier pet.
Bloodwork Isn’t Just for Sick Pets
Think of annual bloodwork and urinalysis as your pet’s internal report card. They can’t exactly
tell us, “Hey, I think my kidneys are feeling a little off,” but their bloodwork can. Lab tests can
catch early signs of kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid issues, and more—often long before your
pet shows any obvious signs.
And catching problems early? It can mean simpler treatment and a much better prognosis (not
to mention a lot fewer emergency vet bills).
Dental Health: It’s a Big Deal
Your pet’s teeth do a lot more than make cute smiles. Dental disease is one of the most
common health problems in pets, and it doesn’t just cause bad breath—it can lead to painful
infections and even affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular dental checkups (and yes, the
occasional cleaning) can save your pet a lot of pain—and save you from unexpected vet bills.
In Short: Wellness Care = More Happy Years
Preventative care is the not-so-secret sauce for keeping your pet feeling their best. It’s about
finding problems early (or better yet, preventing them altogether) so your pet can spend more
time playing fetch, curling up in your lap, and living their very best life.
So, the next time your vet suggests an annual exam, bloodwork, or a dental checkup,
remember—it’s not just another appointment. It’s a gift of extra tail wags, more purrs, and a
healthier, longer life for your best friend.
And hey, maybe we’ll even sneak them a treat after.