6 Reasons Why Your Healthy Pet Still Needs Annual Wellness Exams

As pet lovers, many of us would do anything for our four-legged family members—from giving up half the bed to bringing home their favorite food and toys. But ensuring our animals’ well-being goes beyond treats and belly rubs. Even if your pet seems perfectly healthy, annual wellness exams shouldn’t be skipped! Here’s why a yearly visit to the vet is one of the best things you can do for your pet.

#1: Hands-On Time With A Veterinarian

Animals can be experts at hiding discomfort or illness. Plus, unlike us, they can’t just say when something's wrong. During annual wellness exams, our veterinarians perform a full physical assessment—everything from their heart and lungs to their joints and skin. 

This hands-on time with patients is an incredibly important health screening tool. When our doctors palpate your pet’s belly, take their pulse, or look in their ears, eyes, and mouth, they’re watching your pet’s reactions and looking for subtle changes that could otherwise go unnoticed.  
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Early disease detection can have a huge positive impact on available treatments and on the ultimate outcome! 

#2: Prevention Is Better Than Cure

One of the biggest benefits of wellness exams is the preventive care aspect. During your pet’s annual visit, we’ll update vaccinations, discuss parasite control (yes, fleas, ticks, and heartworm are still a year-round concern in Beaverton!), and talk about their overall lifestyle, including nutrition and exercise.

For younger pets, yearly wellness exams ensure they stay protected as they grow. For senior pets, prevention is about maintaining their quality of life as they age. In both cases, preventing a problem is always easier—and less stressful for both you and your pet—than treating it after the fact.

#3: Tailored Health Plans

You already know your pet is one-of-a-kind, but did you know each pet also has unique healthcare needs? When your pet comes in for their annual wellness exam, we take the time to get to know them and create a health plan tailored to their specific needs.

Is your cat starting to look a little extra “fluffy” around the middle? We can rule out health-related causes of weight gain and recommend a weight management plan. Is your dog’s breed prone to hip dysplasia? We’ll keep an eye on their mobility and suggest exercises to keep their joints healthy.

It’s more than just vaccinations—this exam is your chance to chat with us about behavior changes, dietary concerns, or anything else that might be on your mind! It’s our mission to make sure your pet’s care is as personalized as possible so they thrive at every stage of life.

#4: Dental Health Matters

Dental disease is one of the most common issues we see in pets. And it doesn’t just cause bad breath. It can lead to painful abscesses, gum infection, tooth loss, and even more serious issues like heart, liver, or kidney disease if left untreated. During your pet’s annual wellness visit, a veterinarian will look in their mouth for signs of gum disease, plaque buildup, and chipped or fractured teeth. They’ll also check for cysts, tumors, or any other potentially worrisome growths.
 
Even if you’ve been on top of brushing their teeth and giving dental treats, only a trained veterinarian can thoroughly evaluate your pet’s oral health. If we spot anything concerning, we’ll recommend a professional cleaning or give you tips to improve their dental routine at home. Remember: happy mouth, happy pet!

#5: Prescription Medication Management

Just like us, our pets’ health needs can change over time. During an annual wellness exam, your pet’s doctor can monitor the effectiveness of their current medications, adjust doses, and explore alternative or new treatments available. This is particularly important for pets with chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease, where long-term medication may be required. 

Your veterinarian may also recommend routine lab work to ensure your pet’s medications aren’t negatively impacting them. This proactive approach helps prevent complications, such as drug interactions or harmful side effects, ensuring that your pet receives the safest and most effective treatment. 

#6: Boosting Confidence & Building A Bond

Annual exams don’t have to be a big, stressful event! In fact, we’re all about making these visits as stress-free as possible (for you AND your furry friends). At Mountainside Veterinary Hospital, we get to know patients on a personal level, doing everything we can to help them feel comfortable as soon as they step through the door. Annual wellness exams help build a foundation of trust. This bond between our team and your pets is especially important if they ever need to see us for an urgent health concern.

Keep Your Pet’s Health on Track with Annual Wellness Exams

We believe that regular checkups are the cornerstone of good pet care. Whether your pet is a rambunctious puppy, a mischievous cat, or a senior dog who prefers long naps over long walks, annual wellness exams help keep them feeling their best. Our experienced team is here to support you and your pet throughout their entire life.

So, if it’s been a while since your furry companion has had a checkup, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. Together, we can help make sure your pet enjoys a long, healthy, and happy life by your side.

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