Pet Routine Health Examinations in Montclair, NJ
Most serious health problems in pets don’t announce themselves early. A dog can lose 75% of kidney function before showing obvious signs of illness. Dental disease can cause chronic pain for months before it becomes visible. Heart conditions, thyroid disorders, diabetes — all of them develop quietly, and the earlier they are caught, the more treatment options are available and the better the outcome tends to be.
Routine wellness exams are the single most reliable way to stay ahead of those problems. At Montclair Veterinary Associates, our comprehensive pet health examinations in Montclair, NJ are designed to catch what pet owners cannot see — and to keep your companion healthy through every stage of life. As part of our full range of veterinary services, every wellness visit includes a thorough nose-to-tail physical exam, personalized recommendations, and enough time to address every question you have. Saturday appointments are available.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, veterinarians recommend regular wellness exams for the same reason physicians and dentists do — problems detected early are more likely to be treated successfully, with less difficulty and lower cost. For pets this is especially important, because animals are instinctively wired to mask signs of illness until a condition has progressed significantly.
A routine wellness exam at Montclair Veterinary Associates covers far more than a quick look-over. Dr. Waxman conducts a comprehensive nose-to-tail physical assessment — evaluating your pet’s weight, coat and skin condition, eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, lymph nodes, abdomen, and joints — and then walks you through every finding. The visit is also your opportunity to ask questions about nutrition, behavior, parasite prevention, or anything else on your mind. Every appointment is a full 30 minutes. Dr. Waxman does not rush.
What Happens During a Routine Health Examination?
Here is a breakdown of what our team evaluates during every wellness visit:
- Full physical assessment — weight, body condition score, coat and skin health, posture, and musculature
- Heart and lungs — auscultation for murmurs, irregular rhythms, and respiratory abnormalities
- Eyes, ears, and teeth — checking for infection, inflammation, dental disease, and early signs of decay
- Abdominal palpation and joint assessment — detecting organ abnormalities, masses, and signs of arthritis
- Lymph nodes and skin — checking for swelling, lumps, rashes, or signs of allergic or parasitic activity
- Preventive care review — confirming vaccination status, parasite prevention, heartworm screening, and upcoming care needs
After the exam, Dr. Waxman discusses every finding with you directly — clearly, without rushing. If anything needs follow-up, such as bloodwork, imaging, or a specialist referral, you will leave with a clear plan and an understanding of why.
How Often Does My Pet Need a Wellness Exam?
For most adult dogs and cats, an annual wellness visit is the standard recommendation. Senior pets — generally dogs over seven and cats over ten — benefit from twice-yearly exams, as age-related conditions can progress faster and early detection is especially valuable at this life stage. Visit our geriatric pet care page for more on what we screen for in older animals.
Puppies and kittens need more frequent visits during their first year of life to stay current on vaccines, parasite prevention, and developmental milestones. New pets should be seen as early as possible — ideally within the first week of coming home — so we can establish a baseline of health and address any early concerns.
Pricing at Montclair Veterinary Associates
We believe you should know what to expect before you walk through the door. Here is a look at our current pricing for routine visits and commonly requested services:
🐕 Canine Vaccines
🐈 Feline Vaccines (PUREVAX only)
🔬 Comprehensive Senior Labwork
Routine Health Examinations at Montclair Veterinary Associates
Dr. Cory Waxman has been caring for pets in Northern NJ since 2011, and our practice is built on the conviction that preventive care is the foundation of a long, comfortable life for your companion. A University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine graduate, Dr. Waxman takes the time to know your pet as an individual — tracking changes between visits, building on your pet’s health history, and giving you the kind of continuity of care that matters most as pets age. Learn more about our team and philosophy on our about page.
If your pet is due for a wellness exam — or if you are a new pet owner establishing care — contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Saturday appointments are available.
Why is a pet wellness exam important for senior dogs?
What does a physical exam for an adult dog include?
Are kitten exams necessary, and what do they involve?
How can thyroid testing be beneficial during a pet wellness exam?
What are the essential services covered in a routine pet wellness exam?
Important Routine Health Examination Facts for New Dog & Cat Owners
What Does a Wellness Exam Cost at Montclair Veterinary Associates?
Pricing for routine wellness visits and common vaccines at our Montclair, NJ practice. All visit prices are starting rates — final costs depend on your pet’s specific needs, age, and health status.
🐕 Canine Vaccines
🐈 Feline Vaccines (PUREVAX only)
🔬 Comprehensive Senior Labwork
