Wellness Programs

Wellness programs should include regular vaccination; parasite prevention and control; selected screening for common diseases and conditions; behavioral evaluation; preventive medical, dental, nutritional, and behavioral care, including environmental enrichment; and an assessment of genetic health when appropriate. The program should include a thorough physical examination that includes assessment of nutritional and oral health, screening for selected infectious and parasitic diseases, evaluation of behavior and lifestyle factors related to the animal and others in the household or facility, a reproductive health assessment, and an evaluation for congenital diseases and/or conditions. For vaccination prices, please click wellness packages.Check-Up 

  Puppy Program A Puppies 6 to 9 weeks old

  Puppy Program B Puppies 10 to 13 weeks old

  Puppy Program C Puppies 14 weeks or older

  Kitten Program Kittens 6 weeks or older

Preexisting medical conditions or potential behavior problems that might be worsened by activities should be documented and  informed about associated risks and medical or behavioral changes that might indicate worsening of the condition. Animals should be vaccinated for rabies (if appropriate for that species) in accordance with local and state ordinances or regulations. Other vaccinations should be given at appropriate intervals, as determined by the veterinarian, to be in the best interest of the animal, its RP, and the individuals with whom the animal will be in contact.

Internal and external parasite prevention and control programs should be implemented in accordance with local risks and the life stage of the animal. The practitioner should keep in mind that these animals may not be candidates for certain topical insecticides because of the degree of handling and petting associated with AAA, AAT, and RA programs.

Disabilities should not necessarily eliminate an animal from participation in wellness programs. Amputees or deaf animals, if otherwise healthy, can have a positive impact on special populations, providing their activities do not exacerbate their disabilities and that the ability that is lacking is not necessary for safe and effective interaction with the target population. Participation of animals having conditions that may affect their mobility should be evaluated in light of the physical facilities of the program. Disabled animals must be monitored closely by the RP and the attending veterinarian to ensure that the animal's participation does not exacerbate an existing medical condition or adversely affect its ability to provide needed services.

Screening tests should be selected on the basis of their ability to identify medical problems in these animals and to reduce bi-directional risks of transmission of potential pathogens between animals and humans. Results of screening tests should be evaluated with regard to realistic risks to humans and animals. Appropriate treatment and risk management should be instituted if needed. Interactions of animals with immuno compromised individuals may justify use of certain screening tests that would not be necessary if those animals were only interacting with immunocompetent populations.

Recommendations for health maintenance should include behavior management, daily exercise, play, diet, preventive dental care, and the potential advantages of spaying / neutering in selected species. Medications administered to participating animals should be reviewed for their appropriateness (e.g., animals treated with immunosuppressive medications may be at greater risk of contracting infectious agents).