Nose-to-Tail Physical Exams
Nose-to-Tail Physical Exams
Pet Checkup Exams in Nashville, TN
At City Pets Animal Care, we believe in building a healthier future for your pet—one thoughtful checkup at a time. Our pet wellness exams in Nashville, TN are more than just routine visits. They’re a key part of your pet’s long-term health, helping us catch problems early, personalize care based on lifestyle and breed, and keep your furry family members thriving through every stage of life. Whether you have a curious kitten, an energetic pup, or a wise senior companion, our team is here to deliver the kind of care you’d expect from a clinic that puts transparency, compassion, and comfort first.
We’re proud to offer vet checkups in Nashville that include our open-door policy—meaning you’re welcome to stay with your pet during their exam, every step of the way.
What Is a Nose-to-Tail Physical Exam?
A pet wellness exam is a proactive, full-body health screening designed to prevent illness and detect early signs of disease—even before symptoms appear. Think of it as your pet’s yearly checkup, or for some pets, a twice-yearly tune-up that helps them stay on track.
During your pet’s visit, our team takes a thorough, personalized approach to ensure they’re not only healthy today, but set up for long-term wellness. Our Nashville vet clinic provides cat and dog wellness exams that go beyond the basics—tailoring recommendations based on your pet’s breed, age, lifestyle, and any changes you’ve noticed at home.
What’s Included in a Cat or Dog Nose-to-Tail Exam?
At City Pets, we take the time to examine your pet from nose to tail. Your pet’s wellness exam in Nashville may include:
- Vital signs: heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature
- Physical examination of the skin, eyes, ears, coat, and joints
- Palpation of the abdomen and lymph nodes for masses or swelling
- Listening to heart and lung sounds
- Oral exam and dental health check
- Weight and body condition analysis
- Lifestyle, diet, and behavior consultation
This comprehensive visit allows our veterinary team to catch small problems before they become serious—and give you peace of mind in the process.
How Can I Prepare for My Pet’s Nose-to-Tail Exam?
Before your appointment, here’s how to help your pet have the best visit:
- Fast your pet for 12 hours (if lab work might be recommended)
- Make sure they have access to water
- Bring a fresh stool sample
- Bring any medical records or current medications/supplements
- Keep pets leashed or in a secure carrier
These small steps help us get a complete, accurate picture of your pet’s health.
How Often Should My Pet Have a Wellness Exam?
We recommend most pets receive a vet wellness exam every six months. Just like us, pets age faster than we often realize, and twice-a-year exams help us stay ahead of subtle health changes.
Pets with chronic illnesses or senior pets may benefit from more frequent visits. During each annual vet appointment in Nashville, we adjust preventive care recommendations based on age, lifestyle, and health needs.
How Can I Prepare for My Pet’s Nose-to-Tail Exam?
Before your appointment, here’s how to help your pet have the best visit:
- Fast your pet for 12 hours (if lab work might be recommended)
- Make sure they have access to water
- Bring a fresh stool sample
- Bring any medical records or current medications/supplements
- Keep pets leashed or in a secure carrier
These small steps help us get a complete, accurate picture of your pet’s health.
Common Health Issues Found During Vet Wellness Exams:
Many pet parents are surprised by what we find during a routine checkup. Some of the most common issues we diagnose during a pet wellness exam include:
- Dental disease, gingivitis, broken teeth, and tartar buildup
- Skin allergies, infections, or rashes
- Lumps and bumps (tumors or cysts)
- Joint pain, arthritis, or reduced mobility
- Parasites, including fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms
- Early signs of anxiety, behavior changes, or stress
Early detection means earlier treatment—and a better outcome for your pet.
Are There Seasonal Health Risks To Pets in Nashville?
Yes. Our region’s warm, humid climate makes year-round prevention a must. In Middle Tennessee, we commonly see:
- Seasonal allergies (March through November)
- Flea and tick-borne diseases, including Lyme and Ehrlichia
- Heartworm disease, spread by mosquitoes
- Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease carried by wildlife and rainwater
These are just a few reasons why staying on a consistent wellness and prevention plan is so critical in our area.
What Pet Preventive Care Is Discussed During a Nose-to-Tail Exam?
Our goal is to partner with you in keeping your pet healthy and happy. During your pet’s wellness exam in Nashville, we may discuss:
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Diet and weight management
- Nutritional supplements or CBD therapy
- Exercise, enrichment, and behavior support
- Screening bloodwork and diagnostics
All recommendations are tailored to your pet’s specific age, breed, and risk factors.
What Questions Should I Ask During My Pet’s Nose-to-Tail Exam?
Your visit is a great opportunity to get answers. Consider asking:
- Are there age-related screenings my pet should have?
- Are there any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle changes you recommend?
- How can I support my pet’s long-term health as they age?
Our team is here to help you feel confident in every decision you make for your pet’s care plan.
What Are the Benefits of Regular Pet Wellness Exams?
Regular dog and cat wellness exams allow us to:
- Catch diseases early, when they’re most treatable
- Monitor changes in weight, behavior, or health
- Build a personalized care plan based on evolving needs
- Prevent emergencies and reduce long-term healthcare costs
- Help your pet live a longer, healthier, more comfortable life
When we see your pet regularly, we get to know them—and that helps us deliver more thoughtful, connected care.
Are Senior Pet Exams Different?
Yes. Senior pets often benefit from additional care and screening. During your senior dog or cat’s wellness exam in Nashville, we may recommend:
- More frequent checkups (3–4x per year)
- Bloodwork to detect kidney, liver, or thyroid disease
- Imaging for arthritis or internal changes
- Pain management and mobility support
- Holistic therapies like acupuncture or cold laser therapy
Aging is natural—but suffering isn’t. Our job is to help your pet stay comfortable and active for as long as possible.
What’s the Difference Between a Pet Wellness Exam and a Sick Visit?
A wellness exam is for healthy pets—it’s a proactive approach to prevention. A sick visit is reactive and happens when your pet is showing symptoms like:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Itching or head-shaking
- Coughing or breathing trouble
- Behavioral changes or lethargy
Wellness exams help us catch many of these issues before they ever appear.
How to Know If Your Pet Needs an Immediate Vet Visit:
Some signs should never be ignored. If your pet is showing any of the following, don’t wait:
- Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
- Coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing
- Refusing food or water
- Difficulty walking, limping, or yelping in pain
- Blood in urine or stool
- Sudden changes in behavior or alertness
Call us right away. Our team offers same-day appointments for urgent needs.
How Much Does a Pet Wellness Exam Cost?
As of April 2025, our pet physical exam and office visit fee is $67. This includes a full physical exam and consultation. If additional diagnostics (bloodwork, fecal testing, etc.) are needed, we’ll walk through the costs and options with you ahead of time—transparency is part of our care promise.
Why Choose City Pets Animal Care for Your Pet’s Checkups?
When you choose City Pets Animal Care, you’re choosing:
- A boutique-style clinic with a calm, pet-friendly environment
- An open-door policy—you stay with your pet for every exam and procedure
- Experts in both conventional and holistic care
- A caring team that treats you like family and your pet like their own
- Convenient downtown Nashville location with easy access for busy professionals
We go beyond the checklist—because your pet deserves more than just routine.
Schedule Your Pet’s Nose-To-Tail Exam at City Pets Animal Care in Nashville, TN!
Your pet deserves care that’s attentive, advanced, and built around their unique needs. At City Pets Animal Care, we make wellness a team effort—starting with your next visit.
Whether your dog needs a yearly heartworm screening, your cat is overdue for a dental check, or your rabbit needs a general checkup, we’re here to help.
Call today or book online to schedule your pet’s nose to tail exam. We can’t wait to welcome you and your pet into our care.