Wellness Care
A comprehensive combination of insightful diagnostics and preventative treatments designed to foster and maintain the health of your pet.
We have elevated the standard physical examination by pairing it with a mobility and functional assessment when needed. Doing so allows us to obtain a whole picture of your pet’s health. Read more below about the components of our wellness exams and how it can help you make the best decisions for their ongoing wellness journey!
Physical Examination |
A thorough physical examination is meant to evaluate the current state of your pet’s health, inform on treatment recommendations, and potentially allow your veterinarian to detect issues earlier. A physical exam includes the following:
- Vital Signs
- Body Condition & Weight
- Stance, Gait, & Maneuverability
- Listen to Heart & Lungs
- Nose to Tail Evaluation including eyes, ears, teeth, skin, lymph nodes, and more
- Pain Assessment
Mobility & Function Evaluation
Joint and neurological problems don’t always result in an obvious limp. Sometimes all that is noticeable at first is a change in how a pet jumps on furniture or stands up after laying down for a while. We may use functional assessments like step-ups and figure-8s in the exam room, or we may use other equipment in our conditioning area to help localize the problem in addition to diagnostic imaging like X-rays and ultrasound to diagnose and monitor causes of pain or changes in movement.
What to expect during a Wellness Examination
We believe that standard of care doesn’t mean standard care. Each pet is different, as are the needs of each of our clients. We are deeply committed to education and communication to ensure you are making informed decisions that you are truly comfortable with when it comes to your pet’s care.
In addition to overall health, wellness is about day-to-day life, so expect us to ask deeper questions, like “what do you want to accomplish with your pet?” If the answer is veg out on the couch, we can recommend healthy movie snacks! If the answer is hiking the tallest mountain, we’ll talk about conditioning exercises designed to help your pet achieve those goals.
The foundation of what wellness means to you and your pet starts with a conversation in the exam room. If you are ready to learn more about other topics we’ll discuss during a wellness exam, check out the tabs above to explore all of the facets that create a total wellness profile.
Rabies Vaccination
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Rabies is a deadly virus that can affect both pets and people, making vaccination a critical public health measure. Once symptoms appear, the disease is always fatal, but it is entirely preventable with timely vaccination. Maryland law requires all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, and keeping this vaccine current ensures both your pet and your family stay safe.
Distemper (DHPP)
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The distemper combination vaccine protects against several highly contagious diseases that can be fatal in some cases, including distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus (hepatitis), and parainfluenza. These illnesses can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological problems in dogs. Vaccinating is the most effective way to keep your pet protected from diseases that spread quickly in the environment and between animals.
Leptospirosis (Lepto)
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Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water and soil contaminated by wildlife urine. Dogs can become infected by drinking or swimming in contaminated water, and the disease can also spread to people (zoonotic). Lepto can cause serious kidney and liver damage, but vaccination greatly reduces the risk, making it an important safeguard for dogs living in both urban and rural environments.
Bordetella (Kennel Cough) |
Bordetella is one of the leading causes of “kennel cough,” a contagious respiratory infection that spreads readily where dogs gather—boarding facilities, dog parks, training classes, or grooming salons. While it is usually not life-threatening, kennel cough can cause persistent coughing and discomfort, lead to secondary infections, and it can spread rapidly through a community of pets. Vaccination helps protect your dog and prevents outbreaks in shared spaces.
Influenza |
Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by dog-specific flu strains, different from the human flu. It spreads where dogs mingle and can lead to coughing, fever, runny nose, tiredness, reduced appetite, and can lead to secondary infections. Any dog can catch it, but the risk is higher for pets with respiratory issues, lowered immunity, or lots of close contact with other dogs. Vaccination helps prevent outbreaks by reducing the risk and severity of illness and limiting spread.
Lyme Disease |
Lyme disease is carried by ticks, which are common in Maryland’s wooded and grassy areas. In dogs, Lyme can cause painful joint swelling, fever, lethargy, and, in some cases, life threatening kidney damage. Vaccination, along with good tick prevention, provides a strong line of defense against this debilitating illness and is especially important for active dogs who spend time outdoors. More information on the preventatives we offer is available one tab over!
Rabies Vaccination
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Rabies is a fatal virus that threatens both pets and people, making vaccination essential. Cats are especially at risk since they may roam outdoors or come into contact with wildlife. Once symptoms appear, the disease is always fatal, but it is entirely preventable with timely vaccination. Maryland law requires rabies vaccination, and keeping it current protects your cat, your family, and your community.
Distemper (DHPP)
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The FVRCP vaccine protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpes virus), calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline distemper) —three dangerous and highly contagious diseases. These can cause respiratory infections, severe diarrhea, dehydration, and even death in young or unvaccinated cats. Vaccination is the most effective way to ensure your cat stays safe from these common threats.
Leukemia (FeLV) |
FeLV is a contagious virus that weakens a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to other infections, anemia, and even certain cancers. It spreads through close contact, such as grooming, sharing food bowls, or bites from infected cats. Vaccination provides important protection, especially for kittens and cats that go outdoors or live with other cats. Learn about our infectious disease testing recommendations for FIV & FeLV for at risk cats in our diagnostics section.
Our Trusted Partners
With more than 35 years of vaccine development expertise, Boehringer Ingelheim is our trusted source for our Rabies Vaccines.
Elanco has a proven history of focus on the safety and comfort of patients when it comes to their vaccines, which is why we source our Distemper, Lepto, Lyme, and Bordetella vaccines from Elanco.
Aspire requires all patients to comply with the latest AAHA Vaccination Guidelines for the safety of all patients and staff. This means – DHPP, Rabies, and Leptospirosis for dogs and FVRCP and Rabies for cats.
Heartworm
Heartworm spreads to dogs and cats through mosquito bites. Over time, worms grow and live in the heart and lungs. Dogs may develop a cough, tire easily, or, in severe cases, face heart failure; cats can experience breathing trouble or sudden illness—even with only a few worms. Treatment for dogs is lengthy, costly, and can be painful. There is no approved treatment of heartworm in cats. A simple monthly preventative plus a quick yearly test keeps your pet protected.
Fleas & Ticks
Fleas make pets itchy, can trigger skin allergies, and may carry tapeworms. Left unchecked, fleas don’t just stay on pets—they can multiply in carpets and bedding and even bite people—turning a pet problem into a household one.
Ticks in our area can spread illnesses like Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and others, which may lead to fever, sore joints, and longer-term complications if untreated. The CDC recommends keeping pets current on tick prevention year-round to reduce the risk of ticks transmitting these diseases to people as well.
Modern preventatives stop flea infestations before they take hold and kill or repel ticks quickly, reducing the chance of disease transmission. Pair your pet’s medication with easy habits—year-round dosing, quick tick checks after outdoor time, and good home hygiene—for the best protection.
Routine testing is one of the best ways to maintain your pet’s health and catch potential concerns before they become problems. Our partnership with IDEXX laboratory allows us to run a variety of wellness tests quickly and affordably so we can review results together and make proactive care decisions. For more specialized testing, we partner with trusted specialized laboratories across the country, selecting each for what they do best, giving confidence that your pet’s health is being monitored with the highest accuracy. Icons next to each diagnostic indicate the type of sample needed for the test.
CBC Analysis
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A Complete Blood Count (CBC) evaluates the different types of blood cells circulating in your pet’s body. This preventive test helps us identify indications of infection, inflammation, or anemia early—often before your pet shows symptoms. Performing this test during routine visits allows us to track trends and establish a baseline for your pet’s ongoing wellness.
Chemistry Analysis
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Chemistry panels (sometimes called an internal organ function screen) measure key values that reflect how your pet’s organs are doing, including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. By monitoring these results over time, we can detect subtle changes, guide dietary or lifestyle recommendations, and work to address concerns before they develop into illness.
Urine and Fecal Analysis
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Urine and fecal (poop) testing are essential to preventive care. Urinalysis helps us assess hydration, kidney and liver function, and detect early urinary tract concerns, while fecal exams screen for intestinal parasites that can affect both your pet’s health and your household. Performing these tests regularly ensures your pet stays comfortable and protected.
Screenings for Important Diseases
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Wellness screenings for heartworm, tick-borne illnesses in dogs, and two viral infections in cats (feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)) help us detect threats before they cause serious problems. These quick, reliable tests give peace of mind and allow us to keep preventive care tailored to your pet’s risks and lifestyle.
If your pet is feeling unwell, visit our Illness Diagnostics page to learn how we identify and manage health concerns when they arise.
Imaging plays an important role in preventive care. By looking inside, we can establish baselines, screen for hidden changes, and catch potential problems before they cause symptoms. Our in-house imaging suite allows us to provide thorough, non-invasive assessments that support long-term wellness and peace of mind.
Digital Radiography (X-Rays) |
We are equipped with both a standard table X-ray unit and a mobile X-ray system. This dual approach allows us to capture high-quality images of bones, joints, and organs with maximum flexibility and patient comfort. Routine X-rays are valuable for monitoring growth in young pets (including PennHIP X-rays of the hips), watching for early arthritis, and checking chest or abdominal changes that may not yet be causing symptoms. The mobile unit also allows for stress-free positioning, especially for larger dogs or patients who may be uncomfortable laying down on a standard table.
Ultrasound |
Wellness ultrasounds provide a detailed view of soft tissues like the kidneys, liver, bladder, and intestines. These scans can reveal subtle changes that may not yet appear in lab results, helping us create a complete picture of your pet’s internal health. For breeds at higher risk of certain conditions, ultrasounds are an especially valuable preventive tool.
Dental X-Rays |
Dental X-rays let us look beneath the gumline, where many problems hide. The vast majority of your pet’s tooth structures lie above the gumline, invisible to us without X-rays. These images are captured during routine dental cleanings and help to confirm that teeth and supporting structures are healthy. By checking below the gumline, we can reassure you of your pet’s oral health and address dental disease promptly.
A professional cleaning lets us do what at-home care can’t. A pre-exam and pre-anesthetic blood panel is required to assess the safety of anesthesia for your pet and to tailor a surgical plan to their unique needs. Your pet is closely monitored during the entirety of the procedure as we take full-mouth dental X-rays, remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, polish the teeth, and chart any problem areas. After the procedure, we’ll share clear before-and-after findings and send you home with a simple plan for brushing and dental products that fit your routine.
Why It Matters
Dental disease is one of the most common and overlooked health issues in pets. Bacteria and inflammation around the gums can cause pain, bone loss, trouble eating, and bad breath; left unchecked, ongoing oral infection can also strain a pet’s overall health. Regular cleanings reduce pain, protect the gums and bone that support the teeth, and help your pet stay comfortable, active, and happy.
Daily Habits for Healthier Teeth
Brush, even a little: Aim for daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste).- Choose smart chews: Dental chews or treats can help reduce plaque. Look for options with the VOHC® (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, and keep an eye on calories.
- Avoid very hard items: Skip antlers, bones, hooves, and hard nylon toys, they can crack teeth. If it’s too hard to dent with a fingernail, it’s too hard to chew.
- Water additives & diets: For pets who dislike brushing, approved water additives or dental diets can support oral health.
- Do a quick “lip lift” check: Once a week, gently lift the lip to look for redness along the gums, brown buildup, broken teeth, or a foul odor. Early changes are easier to fix.
- Stay on a schedule: Pair home care with regular exams and professional cleanings as recommended for lasting comfort.
Signs Your Pet May Need a Cleaning
Watch for bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on teeth, red or bleeding gums, drooling, or dropping food. Pets may chew on one side, paw at the mouth, avoid harder treats or toys, or seem less interested in eating. You might also notice facial swelling, loose or broken teeth, or behavior changes linked to discomfort. If you’re seeing any of these, a dental exam can tell us what course of treatment is most appropriate.
