The Importance of Routine Wellness Exams for Pets

Your pet can’t tell you when something feels off, which is why routine wellness exams are so important. At St. Charles Animal Hospital, we recommend annual exams to monitor your pet’s health, catch issues early, and provide tailored care that supports a long, happy life.

During a wellness exam, our team performs a full nose-to-tail evaluation. We check your pet’s weight, body condition, eyes, ears, mouth, skin, joints, and more. We’ll listen to their heart and lungs, palpate the abdomen, and assess mobility. These exams allow us to detect early signs of illness that may not be obvious at home.

Vaccinations are also reviewed and updated during wellness visits. We customize your pet’s vaccine schedule based on lifestyle, age, and risk factors. Whether it's a rabies booster, distemper combo, or non-core vaccines like Bordetella, we keep your pet protected without over-vaccinating.

Parasite prevention is another key part of routine care. Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites are common threats, especially in Maryland’s climate. During your pet’s exam, we’ll recommend the best year-round prevention options and perform testing when necessary.

Blood work and other diagnostics may be suggested depending on your pet’s age or health history. Senior pets, for example, benefit from more frequent exams and baseline lab testing to monitor kidney, liver, and thyroid function.

Wellness visits are also your opportunity to ask questions—about diet, behavior, exercise, dental care, or anything else you’ve noticed. We’re here to offer guidance and help you understand the best choices for your pet’s long-term wellness.

At St. Charles Animal Hospital, we don’t just treat illness—we focus on preventing it. Schedule your pet’s annual exam today at (863) 438-6600 or visit us at 2360 North Blvd West,Davenport, FL 33837 and give them the consistent care they deserve.