We all want our pets to live long, healthy lives. And while good food, daily exercise, and plenty of love go a long way, routine vet visits are a big piece of the puzzle that often get overlooked. We get it: life gets busy, and it’s easy to cancel or reschedule appointments. But the fact is that regular exams are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your pet healthy for years to come.
Exams for Puppies and Kittens
During the first year of their life, puppies and kittens will need to see the vet every few weeks. These visits aren’t just about shots (though starting their vaccinations on schedule is essential). Your vet will also track their growth, check for congenital issues, and make sure they’re developing as they should.
It’s also time to talk about spaying or neutering, nutrition, behavior concerns, and anything else you’ve noticed at home. These early checkups set the stage for lifelong health.
Routine Exams for Adult Pets
After the first year, the pace slows down a bit. Your pet will need to see the vet once a year for:
- A nose-to-tail checkup
- Weight and growth monitoring
- Vaccine boosters
- Heartworm, flea, and tick prevention
- A look at their teeth (and maybe a cleaning if needed)
Even if your pet seems fine, it’s still important to bring them in for these yearly checkups because your vet can spot things you wouldn’t notice right away. They might see a tiny lump, a sore tooth, or mobility issues that are not so easy for you to see at home.
Senior Pet Care
When pets hit their senior years, checkups usually happen more often—about every six months. By bringing older pets in more often, you can be sure to stay ahead of health problems. However, aging often brings changes like arthritis, dental problems, and organ issues. Your vet can recommend diet tweaks, supplements, or medications to prevent discomfort or improve their quality of life.
Why Preventive Care Matters
Here’s the thing: most pets won’t show you when something’s wrong. They keep eating, keep playing, and by the time you notice a change, the problem is often harder to treat.
Think of regular exams as maintenance. You wash your pet’s bowls, pick up after them, and make sure they get exercise. Vet visits are an essential part of that routine. They keep vaccines on track, check your pet’s weight, manage allergies or arthritis, and help make sure your pet is healthy.
The Bottom Line
Routine exams are one of the easiest ways to keep your pet healthy for years to come. From the chaos of puppyhood to the slower pace of senior life, those check-ins with your vet have a huge impact.
At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we love meeting pets of every age and every stage of life. If it’s been a while since your pet’s last exam, or if you’re not sure when they’re due, give us a call. We’ll help you keep your best friend healthy and at your side for as long as possible.
Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 10/15/2025