Dog & Cat Wellness Exams in St. George, UT
A wellness exam is the single most valuable visit your pet makes all year. Because dogs and cats age faster than we do and instinctively hide discomfort, a thorough checkup is often the first place a developing problem shows up. At Agave Animal Hospital in St. George, our veterinarians, Dr. Madison Tripp and Dr. Nicole Sorensen, use these visits to build a complete picture of your pet’s health, answer your questions, and create a plan tailored to life in Southern Utah.
What happens during a wellness exam
Every visit centers on a hands-on, nose-to-tail physical. We weigh and observe your pet, then check the major body systems one by one, looking for changes you might not notice at home.
What’s included:
- A head-to-tail physical: eyes, ears, mouth and teeth, skin and coat, heart and lungs, abdomen, joints, and lymph nodes
- A weight and body-condition check, plus nutrition and dental guidance
- A review of behavior, appetite, energy, thirst, and bathroom habits
- A look at lifestyle risks specific to our area, such as foxtails and cheatgrass awns, heat exposure, and time spent on red-rock trails
- A personalized plan for vaccines, parasite prevention, and any follow-up care your pet may need
Depending on your pet’s age and findings, the visit may also include recommendations for bloodwork or other diagnostics. We talk through every suggestion in plain English so you always know the why behind it.
How often your pet needs one
We generally recommend a wellness exam at least once a year for healthy adult dogs and cats, and every six months for puppies, kittens, and senior pets, whose health can shift quickly. Catching a concern early almost always means simpler, more affordable care.
Care built around Southern Utah
Active, outdoorsy pets here face desert-specific challenges, from summer heat to grass awns that lodge in paws and ears. We factor your pet’s real lifestyle into every recommendation.
Ready to get your dog or cat established with a trusted local team? Request an appointment through our contact page and we’ll help you find a time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a wellness exam take?
Most wellness visits take about 30 minutes, though first appointments and senior or puppy exams may run a little longer so we can review history, answer your questions, and discuss a long-term care plan without rushing.
What should I bring to my pet's wellness exam?
Please bring any previous medical records, your pet's vaccination history, and a list of current medications or supplements. A fresh stool sample is also helpful so we can screen for intestinal parasites. Dogs should arrive on a leash and cats in a secure carrier.
My pet seems healthy — do they still need a wellness exam?
Yes. Dogs and cats are skilled at masking illness, and many conditions cause no obvious signs early on. A routine wellness exam lets our veterinarians detect subtle changes before they become serious, which is why regular checkups matter even for pets that look and act perfectly fine.