It is very important to have a veterinarian examine your dog at least once a year (Twice a year for our seniors!). Dogs age significantly faster than humans, and therefore, it is imperative for dog owners to stay on top of wellness exams in order to catch any potential health problems before they begin. Most dog illnesses are much easier and less expensive to treat, manage, or cure when caught in the early stages before they progress or develop complications. Therefore, regular dog wellness exams are the cornerstone of preventive veterinary medicine.

Not every dog will tell you they’re not feeling well. Some dogs are very stoic and may be hiding pain or discomfort. At your dog's wellness exam, this is a great time to discuss with your veterinarian any changes in eating habits, drinking habits, changes in playfulness, and general overall health. 

If you notice any changes in behavior, such as a change in eating habits, not greeting you the way they normally would, reluctance to jump up or move around the way they typically would… these are the subtle signs of what could be a serious health problem, and it is time to schedule a veterinary exam.

At Newport Harbor Animal Hospital, we may recommend performing basic lab tests at least once a year, as well as reviewing nutrition and any behavioral issues you may be noticing.

What Is Involved In A Dog Wellness Exam?

A wellness exam is the perfect time to discuss your dog’s daily habits, diet, and any problems you may have noticed. Our staff is trained to make your dog feel comfortable, to reduce stress, and so that we can perform a thorough examination. We typically allow the dog to get comfortable with his surroundings first before handling him. During this time, we will talk with you about your dog’s daily routine and if you have noticed anything out of the ordinary. Your vet will discuss the following topics with you:

  • The appropriate food and weight for your dog
  • Behavioral issues
  • Daily water consumption
  • Your dog’s stool production
  • The amount of activity your dog gets daily
  • Whether or not your dog is alert and content

Dogs should have a thorough dental cleaning by age 3. We will do a dental exam and look for any visual abnormalities in the mouth. By age 3, virtually all dogs have some kind of dental issue. In addition to problems with their teeth, dogs can develop tooth infections or tumors inside of their mouths, and since they are so adept at hiding pain, especially dental pain, it is very easy to overlook these issues. However, make no mistake, dental issues are painful and seriously affect the quality of life.

At Newport Harbor Animal Hospital, we assess the body condition of the dog and determine if he is the correct weight. A wellness exam also includes palpating the abdomen for organ size, making sure that all is normal, and checking for any lumps or bumps. We will also collect urine and blood samples for yearly labs, depending on the age of the pet and heartworm testing recommendations. Preventative care is extremely important, along with vaccines, parasite control, and deworming.

This is the time to bring up any issues you are not sure about. 

How Often Should Dogs Be Examined?

Your dog should be examined at least once per year. You may not be aware that your pup is not feeling well, or what you considered normal was not the case, and it’s better to stay one step ahead of any potential medical issues. It is not uncommon to find a new heart murmur or ear infection that you didn’t know about at the wellness exam. Older or geriatric dogs should have a semi-annual (twice yearly) wellness exam.

Why Might Additional Tests Be Recommended?

Dogs age much quicker than we do, so doing yearly labs may be recommended.  For some conditions, if we can catch them early, we may be able to change their diet to control or reverse it to improve their quality of life. We will also check your dog for intestinal parasites by checking a stool sample. Depending on the condition of your dog, any symptoms you have noticed, concerns you have, or test results, diagnostic imaging may also be recommended when appropriate to provide our doctors with the information necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and come to a recommendation for treatment.

Schedule A Wellness Exam For Your Dog

At Newport Harbor Animal Hospital, our veterinary staff is here to ensure that your dog is able to enjoy a long and healthy life as your companion. Call us today to make a dog wellness exam appointment with one of our veterinarians. You can reach us now at: (949) 612-2756