Keeping your furry friend healthy and happy starts with regular vet visits! Early detection of diseases can make all the difference, helping prevent serious conditions or catching them early for prompt treatment. A proactive approach to your dog's health can save you money in the long run and ensure a longer, healthier life for your pup.

Routine Wellness Exams

Just like humans need regular check-ups, your dog needs routine vet visits to stay in tip-top shape. The frequency of these exams depends on factors like age and overall health.

  • Healthy adult dogs – Once a year is usually enough.
  • Puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions – More frequent visits are recommended.

Puppies (0-12 Months Old)

Puppies grow fast and require monthly vet visits in their first year. These visits include essential vaccinations to protect against diseases like distemper, hepatitis, parvo, rabies, and leptospirosis. We also recommend social vaccines like Influenza and Bordetella.

By around 6-12 months, it’s also a great time to talk to your vet about spaying or neutering your pup. This helps prevent health issues, unwanted litters, and certain behavioral problems.

Adult Dogs (1-7 Years Old)

Once your pup reaches adulthood, an annual wellness exam is essential. At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we perform head-to-tail check-ups to catch any potential health issues early, from dental problems to joint pain.

Your visit will also include:

  • Necessary vaccinations
  • Lab work (this helps us have a baseline as your dog ages)
  • Nutritional advice
  • Parasite prevention
  • Behavioral and training discussions

If any concerns arise, we’ll guide you through the next steps to keep your dog feeling their best.

Senior Dogs (8+ Years Old)

As dogs age, they need extra care. Most breeds are considered seniors at eight years old, while giant breeds (like Great Danes and Mastiffs) reach this stage around five years old.

Because older dogs are more prone to illnesses and mobility issues, we recommend wellness exams every six months. These check-ups include:

  • All standard wellness assessments
  • Bloodwork and urinalysis for early disease detection
  • Pain management and mobility support

If your senior pup is slowing down or showing signs of discomfort, don’t wait—our team is here to help with personalized care and treatment options.

Final Thoughts

Regular vet visits are key to keeping your dog healthy at every life stage. At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we’re here to provide expert care and guidance to keep tails wagging and hearts happy and to ensure they enjoy a happy and healthy life. Schedule your pet’s appointment today 407-682-5298