A wellness examination is not an excuse for us to charge you for an exam every year, or subject your pet to complicated medical tests and costly treatments just because they are available.

Rather, wellness exams allow us to offer preventive measures to impede the development of major illness, protect against disease or injury. Plus, the opportunity to analyze and record baseline values such as temperature, body condition, and lab work for internal body systems.

If we can measure these values when your pet is healthy, we can better detect problems later in life and offer significantly better advice in the event of illness or emergency.

During the 12 body system exam at Palo Verde Pet Clinic, our veterinarians will inspect your pet from nose to tail. This includes all 12 body systems visually, by touch, by listening and by close observation to your pet’s body responses. Though you may be unaware, the slight movements or signs your pet makes during this exam can alert our doctors to potential problems; or assure them all is well.

This exam includes the following 12 body systems:

• Integumentary – Skin

• Ocular System – Eyes

• Digestive System – Esophagus, Stomach, Small Bowel and Large Bowel

• Olfactory System – Nose, Smell

• Musculoskeletal – Muscles, Bones and Joints

• Neurological System – Brain, Balance and Nerves

• Auditory System – Hearing and Ear Canals

• Respiratory System – Upper Airway, Lower Airway and Lungs

• Cardiovascular System – Heart, Arteries and Veins

• Endocrine System – Hormone, Pituitary,Thyroid and Reproductive Glands

• Dental – Mouth, Teeth and Gums

• Lymphatic – Lymph Nodes

Our veterinary team starts by taking your pet’s vital signs and weight. They will ask you for details about your pet’s general health, food and water intake and other important indicators of general health. They will discuss preventive treatments your pet is on and vaccination history. Then one of our veterinarians will perform a comprehensive examination from nose to tail. Depending on findings, they may recommend baseline diagnostic testing, vaccines, parasite screening, preventive treatments or diet and exercise changes.

There are many resources available to help you care for your new pet. From diet and exercise to medical advice, there are many opinions available for information. We recommend consultation with one of our experienced veterinary staff and the use of the following trusted veterinary resources.

We’ve also put together a resources page covering various topics for pet owners and tips for dog owners in Arizona.