What happens at a wellness exam
We weigh your pet, then check eyes, ears, mouth, heart and lungs, skin, joints and belly. We also ask about eating, drinking and energy at home, because owners often notice changes first.
You leave with a short written summary and a plan for the year.
Puppies and kittens
Young pets come in for a few visits, weeks apart, while their first vaccines take hold. We also cover feeding, house training, parasites and when to spay or neuter.
Which vaccines your pet needs
Florida law requires rabies vaccination for dogs and cats once they are 4 months old. We give the rabies certificate and tag at the visit.
Other vaccines depend on how your pet lives: an indoor cat needs fewer than a dog that boards or swims. Your vet will explain each one.
Questions about wellness exams and vaccines
How often should my pet have a checkup?
Most adult pets come in once a year. Older pets and pets with ongoing conditions often come twice a year.
Can I bring in my pet's old records?
Yes, please. Email them before the visit or bring paper copies, so we do not repeat vaccines your pet already had.
Reviewed by Dr. Silas Whitlock, DVM, October 7, 2026