Appointments & Bookings
What should I expect at my pet's first visit at the vet?
Your pet’s first visit—and every annual exam after—is focused on building a complete picture of their health and creating a personalized care plan to support long-term wellness.
Why does my pet need an annual exam if they seem healthy?
Even healthy pets benefit from annual exams. Dogs and cats are very good at hiding pain or early signs of illness, and many medical conditions develop gradually before symptoms are noticeable. An annual exam allows your veterinarian to identify changes early, when treatment is often simpler, more effective, and less costly.
What happens during my pet’s exam?
Your pet’s exam includes a thorough nose-to-tail physical assessment. Your veterinarian will evaluate:
This hands-on exam helps detect subtle changes that may indicate early disease or discomfort.
Will my veterinarian check my pet’s teeth and mouth?
Yes, dental health is an important part of overall wellness. Your veterinarian will examine your pet’s teeth and gums for signs of dental disease, damage, or pain. If concerns are found, they may discuss at-home dental care, professional cleanings, or dental X-rays.
Will my pet be weighed and assessed for nutrition?
Yes, your pet’s weight is recorded and evaluated based on age, breed, size, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian may ask about diet, treats, activity level, and bathroom habits to help ensure your pet is maintaining a healthy weight and receiving proper nutrition.
What diagnostic tests might be recommended?
Annual screening tests such as blood, urine, and fecal testing are commonly recommended. These tests can detect underlying conditions that may not yet show visible symptoms and help establish a healthy baseline for future comparison.
Will my pet receive vaccines at their exam?
If your pet is due, vaccines will be discussed and recommended based on age, lifestyle, location, and state requirements. Core vaccines are recommended for all adult pets, while non-core vaccines are tailored to individual risk factors such as boarding, daycare, travel, or outdoor exposure.
Will parasite prevention be discussed?
Yes, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention is reviewed annually and tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and geographic risk. Year-round prevention helps protect your pet from parasites that can cause serious illness and, in some cases, can be transmitted to people.
Should I bring anything to my pet’s visit?
Arriving prepared is helpful. Please bring:
Notes, photos, or videos of any changes or concerns you’ve noticed
Information about your pet’s diet (photos of food labels are helpful)
A fresh stool sample (about the size of a marble, less than 24 hours old)
Any vaccination requirements for boarding, daycare, or travel
What if I have questions or concerns during the visit?
Your visit is the perfect time to ask questions. Your veterinarian will review findings, discuss recommendations, and work with you to create a care plan tailored to your pet’s needs and lifestyle.
How does Thrive Plus help with pet exams and preventive care?
Many Thrive Pet Healthcare hospitals offer Thrive Plus, a preventive care membership designed to make routine care more accessible and predictable. Benefits include unlimited free exams, 10% off services, $5 basic nail trims, and exclusive member-only offers year-round.*
*12–month commitment required. Unlimited free exams apply to general practice exams only, and hospital fees may apply.
See full terms for excluded services.
What if I’m worried about the cost of veterinary care?
Your care team can discuss options to help manage costs, including preventive care memberships and CareCredit payment solutions, so you can focus on your pet’s health with less financial stress.
