Wellness Exams
Unhurried nose-to-tail exams that catch small changes early and leave you with a plan you can actually follow at home.
Wellness Exams
A wellness exam is the visit where nothing is wrong yet, and that is exactly why it matters. Your veterinarian looks at eyes, ears, teeth, skin, heart, lungs, joints, belly and weight, then compares everything with last year so slow changes stand out. Pets hide discomfort well, so a careful hands-on look is often the first place a problem shows itself.
We book wellness exams for thirty minutes, which leaves room for questions about food, behavior, travel, a new baby in the house or the stiff walk you noticed last week. You leave with a short written summary, the dates of anything that is due, and a clear note on what to watch for at home.
Who it is for
Every dog and cat benefits from a regular wellness visit, but some need one more than others. Pets who have just joined your family, pets on long-term medication, large-breed dogs entering middle age and cats who rarely leave the house all hide small problems well, and a hands-on exam is often the first chance to spot them.
If it has been more than a year since your pet's last visit, or you have moved to Minneapolis and are looking for a new clinic, a wellness exam is the easiest place to start. We review past records, bring vaccines and prevention up to date and set a sensible schedule from there.
What is included
- A full physical exam with weight and body condition scoring
- A dental check with photos when something needs a closer look
- Parasite screening and a prevention plan that suits your pet
- Diet, activity and behavior questions answered in the room
Most adult pets do well with one wellness visit a year. Puppies, kittens and seniors usually see us more often, and pets with ongoing conditions get a schedule built around them.
By life stage
| Life stage | Exams per year | What we focus on |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy or kitten | Every 3 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks | Vaccines, parasites, growth, socializing |
| Adult (1 to 7 years) | Once a year | Weight, teeth, skin, prevention |
| Senior (8 years and up) | Twice a year | Joints, organs, bloodwork, comfort |
Good to know
Wellness visits are where we build a baseline. When bloodwork, weight and exam notes are on file from healthy years, a future sick visit is faster and easier to read, because we know what normal looks like for your pet in particular. Owners also tell us they like having one place where every vaccine date, lab value and note lives, ready to print or send.
From our doctors
We would rather see a healthy pet twice a year than a sick one once. Wellness visits are also where trust is built: your pet learns that our rooms mean treats and gentle hands, and you learn how we think and explain things. When a harder conversation comes later, about a lump, a heart murmur or getting older, it happens with people you already know.
Pricing facts: Wellness exams start at $68. Plan members pay nothing extra for routine exams.
Illustrative pricing. Not an offer.
What to expect at a wellness exams visit
Before the visit
Bring a fresh stool sample, a list of foods and treats, and any questions you have been saving.
In the exam room
Your veterinarian works through a nose-to-tail check while you stay with your pet the whole time.
Before you leave
You get a written summary, due dates and costs for anything recommended, with no pressure to decide that day.
Families on wellness exams at Birchline
“They called me during surgery recovery just to say Rufus was awake and warm. That call meant the world.”
Marcus B.Owner of Rufus“Same-day sick visit, X-rays in minutes and a clear plan in writing. I knew exactly what to do at home.”
Priya S.Owner of Otis“Our cat hates car rides, yet she left calmer than she arrived. The quiet cat room really helps her.”
Ellen T.Owner of Mochi“The estimate matched the bill and every line was explained. No surprises, just honest care.”
Hannah R.Owner of Juniper
Wellness Exams questions, answered
Plan on about thirty minutes in the room. First visits and multi-pet appointments run a little longer, and we will tell you when you book.
Only if bloodwork is planned. We will let you know ahead of time; usually it is no food after midnight, with water allowed.
Yes. Book a double slot so each pet gets a full exam without anyone feeling rushed.
Tell us when you book. We can offer a quiet room, extra treats, a slower pace and, where it fits, calming medication before the visit.
No. Your veterinarian explains what is recommended for your pet's age and history, gives you the cost and lets you decide. Many visits need nothing beyond the exam itself.
Changes in appetite, thirst, weight, energy, breathing or bathroom habits are all worth a call. Your visit summary lists the signs that matter most for your pet.
Related services
Vaccinations
Core and lifestyle vaccines on a schedule built for your pet, with every date tracked and reminders sent for you.
Dental Care
Exams, cleanings under monitored anesthesia and dental X-rays, plus simple home routines that fit real life.
Surgery
Spays, neuters, lump removals and other soft tissue procedures, with careful anesthesia planning and pain control.
Ready when your pet is
Book wellness exams online or call the clinic. Our team confirms every request within one business day.
- Written estimates
- Thirty-minute visits
