What does the first exam include?

Your pet’s first exam includes a thorough nose-to-tail physical examination, review of medical history, discussion of nutrition and lifestyle, and assessment of vaccines and preventive care needs. Our veterinarian will address any concerns you have and create a personalized care plan to support your pet’s long-term health and well-being.

What kinds of veterinary services do you offer?

We offer comprehensive veterinary services, including wellness and preventive care, vaccinations, diagnostics, surgery, dentistry, pain management, and senior pet care. Our goal is to support your pet through every life stage by combining modern medicine with compassionate, individualized attention tailored to each patient and family.

Can I schedule an appointment with a specific vet?

Yes, whenever possible, we are happy to schedule your appointment with a specific veterinarian. We value continuity of care and understand the importance of building a trusted relationship. Availability may vary, so we recommend requesting your preferred doctor when booking to help us accommodate your preference.

What can I expect during my pet’s first visit?

During your pet’s first visit, our team will warmly welcome you, gather medical history, and perform a complete physical examination. The veterinarian will discuss preventive care, lifestyle considerations, and any concerns you may have. Our goal is to make the visit informative, stress-free, and reassuring for both you and your pet.

Do you offer spays/neuters?

Yes, we provide spay and neuter surgeries as part of our surgical services. These procedures are performed with careful monitoring, modern anesthesia, and pain-management protocols. We are happy to discuss appropriate timing, benefits, and what to expect before and after surgery to ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable.

Where are you located?

Antigua Veterinary Practice is conveniently located at 195 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine, Florida. Our central location allows us to serve pets and families throughout the community. Please feel free to contact us if you need directions or have questions about parking or accessibility.

Why should I schedule a wellness exam for my pet?

Wellness exams allow us to monitor your pet’s overall health, detect potential concerns early, and keep preventive care up to date. Regular visits help extend your pet’s quality of life and provide an opportunity to discuss nutrition, behavior, and lifestyle changes, ensuring proactive care rather than reactive treatment.

How often should my pet get vaccinations?

Vaccination schedules vary based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health status. Puppies and kittens require a series of initial vaccines, while adult pets typically receive boosters annually or every few years. Our veterinarians tailor vaccination plans to provide effective protection while avoiding unnecessary treatments.

What signs should I watch for that suggest diagnostic care is needed?

Signs that may indicate the need for diagnostic testing include changes in appetite, energy level, weight, mobility, or behavior, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or unexplained pain. If something seems unusual for your pet, early diagnostics can help identify underlying issues and guide timely, effective treatment.

Can diagnostic imaging detect cancer early in pets?

Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, can help identify abnormalities, masses, or changes in organs that may suggest cancer. While imaging alone cannot always provide a definitive diagnosis, it plays a valuable role in early detection, staging, and treatment planning when combined with laboratory testing and clinical evaluation.

How long does it take for pets to recover from surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, your pet’s age, and overall health. Many routine surgeries require one to two weeks of rest and restricted activity. Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and pain management plans to support a smooth, comfortable recovery at home.

How do I schedule a surgical consultation at Antigua Veterinary Practice?

Scheduling a surgical consultation is easy. Simply contact our office by phone or request an appointment through our website. During the consultation, the veterinarian will examine your pet, review diagnostic results if needed, discuss surgical options, and answer any questions to ensure you feel confident moving forward.

Do you do dental cleanings?

Yes, we offer professional dental cleanings performed under anesthesia to ensure thorough and safe care. Dental services include scaling, polishing, dental X-rays when indicated, and a full oral examination. Routine dental care is essential for preventing periodontal disease and supporting your pet’s overall health.

Is dental care painful for pets?

Dental procedures are performed under anesthesia, ensuring your pet remains comfortable and pain-free during treatment. We use appropriate pain-management protocols before, during, and after the procedure. Addressing dental disease often relieves chronic discomfort, helping pets feel significantly better once healing begins.

When should I schedule my puppy or kitten’s first vet visit?

Puppies and kittens should have their first veterinary visit around six to eight weeks of age. Early visits allow us to begin vaccinations, discuss nutrition and parasite prevention, and address developmental needs. Starting care early helps set the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

How often should senior pets see the veterinarian?

Senior pets benefit from veterinary visits at least twice a year. As pets age, health changes can occur more rapidly. Regular exams allow us to monitor organ function, mobility, and comfort, identify age-related conditions early, and adjust care plans to maintain quality of life.

How can you help manage arthritis and joint pain?

We offer comprehensive arthritis management, including physical exams, diagnostic imaging, pain-relief medications, joint supplements, weight management guidance, and lifestyle recommendations. Our goal is to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and help your pet remain active and comfortable through a personalized, multimodal treatment approach.

Do you serve pets in Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville, Palm Coast, and Elkton?

Yes. Antigua Veterinary Practice welcomes patients from St. Augustine and the surrounding communities of Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville, Palm Coast, and Elkton. We are located at 195 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, and are accepting new patients. Call +19048241414 or book online.

Annual Pet Wellness Checklist from Animal Hospital Near You

Name: Antigua Veterinary Practice
Address: 195 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL, 32084, US
Telephone: +19048241414
Price range: $$

Keeping your pet healthy requires more than occasional vet visits. An animal hospital near you can help guide preventive care, but having a yearly wellness checklist ensures nothing is missed. In this guide, we’ll walk through a complete annual pet wellness checklist, covering exams, vaccinations, nutrition, and more to help your furry companion live a longer, healthier life.

Why Annual Wellness Visits Matter

Routine visits to an animal hospital near you are the foundation of preventive care. Pets age faster than humans, so even a single year can bring significant changes in their health.

Annual wellness exams help:

Detect diseases early before symptoms appear
Monitor weight, dental health, and mobility
Update vaccinations and parasite prevention
Build a medical history for better long-term care

Early detection often means simpler, more affordable treatments and a better quality of life for your pet.

Complete Physical Examination Checklist

A full-body exam is the first step during any annual visit to an animal hospital.

What your veterinarian checks:

Eyes and ears: Signs of infection, discharge, or vision issues
Skin and coat: Allergies, parasites, lumps, or dryness
Heart and lungs: Abnormal sounds or breathing issues
Weight and body condition: Obesity or sudden weight loss
Joints and mobility: Early arthritis or stiffness

Even subtle changes can signal underlying health problems, so these exams are more important than they may seem.

Vaccination Updates and Schedule

Vaccinations protect pets from serious, often life-threatening diseases. Your vet will tailor a vaccination plan based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk level.

Core vaccines for dogs:

Rabies
Distemper
Parvovirus
Adenovirus

Core vaccines for cats:

Rabies
Feline distemper (panleukopenia)
Feline herpesvirus
Calicivirus

A veterinary clinic may also recommend non-core vaccines like Bordetella or feline leukemia, depending on exposure risks.

Parasite Prevention Plan

Parasites are a year-round threat, even for indoor pets. Annual checkups are the perfect time to review prevention strategies.

Common parasites to watch for:

Fleas
Ticks
Heartworms
Intestinal worms

Preventive steps:

Monthly flea and tick treatments
Year-round heartworm prevention
Regular fecal exams

Consistent parasite control keeps your pet comfortable and protects your household from potential health risks.

Dental Health Evaluation

Dental disease is one of the most common issues seen at any animal hospital, yet it often goes unnoticed.

Signs of dental problems:

Bad breath
Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
Red or bleeding gums
Difficulty eating

Annual dental care checklist:

Professional dental exam
Teeth cleaning if needed
At-home brushing routine
Dental chews or approved products

Healthy teeth and gums can prevent infections that may affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Nutrition and Weight Management

A balanced diet is essential for long-term health. During your annual visit, your vet will assess your pet’s diet and make recommendations.

Key nutrition tips:

Feed high-quality, age-appropriate food
Monitor portion sizes
Avoid excessive treats
Provide fresh water at all times

Weight management matters:

Obesity can lead to:

Diabetes
Joint problems
Heart disease

A vet near you can help create a personalized nutrition plan to maintain a healthy weight.

Bloodwork and Diagnostic Testing

Annual blood tests provide a deeper look into your pet’s internal health, even when they appear normal.

Common tests include:

Complete blood count (CBC)
Blood chemistry panel
Thyroid testing (especially for senior pets)
Urinalysis

These tests help detect:

Kidney or liver disease
Diabetes
Hormonal imbalances

Early detection allows for quicker treatment and better outcomes.

Senior Pet Care Considerations

As pets age, their healthcare needs change. Senior pets typically require more frequent monitoring.

Additional checks for senior pets:

Arthritis evaluation
Cognitive function assessment
More frequent bloodwork
Pain management planning

If your pet is over 7 years old, your vet may recommend biannual visits instead of yearly checkups.

Behavior and Lifestyle Assessment

Behavioral changes can often indicate health problems or stress.

Discuss with your vet:

Changes in appetite or sleep
Increased anxiety or aggression
Litter box or house-training issues
Activity level changes

Your veterinarian can help identify whether the issue is medical or behavioral and suggest appropriate solutions.

Grooming and Hygiene Routine

Proper grooming is more than just appearance. It plays a key role in overall health.

Annual grooming checklist:

Nail trimming
Ear cleaning
Coat brushing
Bathing schedule

Regular grooming helps prevent infections, matting, and skin conditions.

Emergency Preparedness and Microchipping

Unexpected situations can happen, so being prepared is essential.

Important steps:

Ensure your pet is microchipped
Keep ID tags updated
Maintain a pet first aid kit
Know the location of an emergency animal hospital near you

Microchipping greatly increases the chances of being reunited with a lost pet.

An annual wellness checklist is one of the best ways to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy year-round. From routine exams and vaccinations to dental care and nutrition, every step plays a role in preventive health. Staying proactive helps catch issues early and gives your pet the best possible quality of life.

If you’re looking for trusted, compassionate care in an animal hospital near you, then schedule your appointment with Antigua Veterinary Practice in Augustine, FL, and keep your furry companion on track for a healthy future.

FAQs

Q1: How often should I visit an animal hospital near you for my pet?
Ans: Most pets should visit at least once a year, while senior pets may need checkups every six months.

Q2: What does a wellness exam include at an animal hospital near you?
Ans: It typically includes a physical exam, vaccinations, parasite screening, and sometimes bloodwork.

Q3: Are annual vaccinations necessary for all pets?
Ans: Not all vaccines are given yearly, but your vet will recommend a schedule based on your pet’s needs.

Q4: How can I tell if my pet needs dental care?
Ans: Bad breath, gum redness, and difficulty eating are common signs that dental care is needed.

Q5: Is preventive care really worth the cost?
Ans: Yes, preventive care helps detect issues early, often saving money and avoiding serious health problems later.

Annual Pet Wellness Checklist from an Animal Hospital Near You

By Antigua Veterinary Practice | March 26, 2026