At Desert Forest Animal Hospital, we believe the best way to keep your pet healthy is through proactive, preventative care. Located in Cave Creek, we proudly serve dogs and cats in Cave Creek, Carefree, and surrounding North Valley communities within a 5-mile radius.
Regular wellness exams and preventative services help detect health issues early, prevent disease, and support your pet’s long-term quality of life. Our team takes a gentle, Fear Free approach to make every visit as comfortable as possible for your pet.
Many health conditions develop gradually and may not show obvious symptoms until they become advanced. Routine preventative care allows us to identify problems early — often before they become serious or expensive to treat.
Preventative care helps your pet:
Regular checkups are one of the most important investments you can make in your pet’s health.
During a preventative care visit at Desert Forest Animal Hospital, we perform a thorough head-to-tail examination. A typical wellness visit may include:
We take time to answer your questions and provide guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
We are committed to reducing fear, anxiety, and stress during veterinary visits. Our team uses Fear Free techniques to create a calmer experience for your pet, which helps make preventative care visits more positive and effective.
The frequency of preventative care visits depends on your pet’s age and health status:
Puppies & Kittens More frequent visits are recommended during the first year for vaccinations, growth monitoring, and early socialization guidance.
Adult Dogs & Cats (1–7 years) Most adult pets benefit from at least one comprehensive wellness exam per year.
Senior Pets (7+ years) Senior pets often need wellness exams every 6 months to monitor for age-related conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, and dental problems.
We will work with you to determine the ideal schedule for your pet.
Preventative care doesn’t stop at the clinic. Daily care at home plays an important role in your pet’s health. We can guide you on:
Learn more about our dental services →
Routine exams and diagnostics often help us identify:
Early detection often leads to simpler, more effective treatment options.
How often should my pet have a wellness exam?
Most adult dogs and cats should have at least one wellness exam per year. Puppies, kittens, and senior pets typically need more frequent visits.
What is included in a preventative care visit?
A wellness exam includes a full physical examination, weight check, vaccination review, parasite prevention discussion, and recommendations based on your pet’s age and health.
Do you offer vaccinations during wellness visits?
Yes. We review your pet’s vaccination history and administer any needed vaccines during the appointment when appropriate.
Is blood work part of preventative care?
We often recommend blood work as part of a wellness visit, especially for senior pets or when there are concerns about internal health.
Do you see pets for wellness exams only?
Yes. Many clients bring their pets in specifically for annual or semi-annual wellness exams even when no problems are present.
