Puppy/Kitten Wellness: At these initial visits, with your input, we will develop a healthcare plan for your new pet. A thorough physical exam will get them started out on the right paw.  Risk factors will be discussed to be sure that your pets are appropriately vaccinated based on their individual needs.  Conversations about training, parasite control, dental care and breed related diseases occur during these visits.  We recommend that all kittens be tested for feline leukemia (FELV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). 

Wellness Exams: We stress the importance of physical examinations on a regular basis as the core of preventative healthcare. Biannual examinations are recommended to monitor changes or detect new problems or risk factors for your pet.  Remember that it is important for your pet to have an examination, even if he/she is not ill or due for any vaccinations.

Senior Wellness:  Beginning a senior wellness program is breed related.  In dogs, the average age for senior screenings is 8, but for giant breed dogs we recommend starting at age 7.
These comprehensive screenings include a complete blood count, profile and thyroid level, urinalysis and EKG depending on the breed predisposition for heart disease.

For cats, we also recommend the full blood screening, urinalysis and blood pressure monitoring at 8 years old. 

Radiographs and ultrasound may also be suggested.  We strongly encourage biannual examinations for all pets, but especially those in the senior group.  At this life stage we discuss changes in nutritional requirements and evaluate arthritis pain management and closely monitor “lumps and bumps.”

 Vaccinations:  Lifestyles and risk factors vary from pet to pet; therefore, not all vaccination requirements are the same.  We believe that a vaccination protocol should be individualized based on your pet’s needs.  Our doctor will work with you to make the best recommendations for your pet.  Since this is a controversial subject, we are happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have about a particular vaccination.  Many vaccines available today can be given for an extended interval, while some are still annual.  Please note that all pets are required by state law to be current on the rabies vaccine.  While there are options to vaccinating, we recommend discussing them at your pet’s examination.

Parasite prevention: Parasite control is very important for your pet and family.  Both internal (i.e. roundworms) and external parasites (i.e. ticks) are capable of causing illness in your pets, children and even some adults.

We strongly recommend flea and tick control for all dogs and outdoor cats, heartworm preventative for dogs and cats, and an annual fecal exam.

Nutrition Counseling:  Nutrition is the foundation of your pet’s well being.  Although many different foods are available, not all are high quality.  Of the best foods on the market, not all may be right for your pet.  Because each pet has their own nutritional requirements based on lifestyle, age, disease or optimum weight, we can provide guidance for making the correct choice.  We can also prescribe therapeutic diets when necessary. 

Behavior Counseling:  We strongly encourage basic obedience training for all dogs whether they are young or newly acquired adults.  We provide guidance and basic educational information about behavioral problems and training.  However, for more involved concerns, we will be happy to provide information about local behaviorists and trainers.