For Every Dog We See

For dogs to stay healthy and avoid serious conditions later on in life, it's important that they see their veterinarian at least once a year. Dogs benefit greatly from yearly exams, which can help detect underlying issues that would otherwise go unnoticed. For senior dogs (7 years and older), we recommend exams twice yearly. For puppies, quarterly exams are recommended based on vaccination protocols. At Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center in Annandale, annual exam care is the keystone of your dog's lifelong health program. It encompasses a large array of different veterinary services that contribute to your pet's overall care. We love seeing your dog walk through our doors, happy and healthy, and we want to preserve their good health for as long as possible. Call us today at (703) 256-8414.

All of Our Annual Exam Services Are Designed to Help Your Dog Live Their Healthiest Life, From One Stage to the Next:

  • Annual/bi-annual dog exams
  • Puppy care
  • Vaccinations
  • Routine diagnostic testing
  • Parasite control & prevention
  • Teeth cleaning
  • Spay and neuter
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Microchipping
  • Laser therapy
  • ...and more

Dog Wellness Exams

Dogs receive thorough attention during their annual or bi-annual exam visits, which begin with a physical exam. Your veterinarian will examine their:

  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Heart rate
  • Nose
  • Coat
  • Skin
  • Paws
  • Limbs
  • Joints
  • Weight
  • Temperature
  • Mouth/teeth/gums

Your veterinarian will discuss any abnormalities or other notable characteristics with you once they've completed this exam

If your dog is in good shape, they can have their vaccinations. To test for heartworm, we'll draw a small blood sample. We recommend bringing in a fresh stool sample so that we can check for intestinal parasites and administer treatment if necessary. Come to this appointment prepared with any questions or concerns you might have, so your veterinarian can address them promptly.

Puppy Care

Newly adopted puppies need to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible so we can begin their healthcare regimen and catch any illnesses or diseases in their earliest stages. Bring a fresh stool sample to your appointment, as most puppies are born with some form of intestinal parasites (roundworms are very common). If your puppy is old enough (6-8 weeks), we can administer their first in a series of 4 distemper boosters. During this visit, we'll go over house training, dietary recommendations, and much more.

Senior Dog Care

Comprehensive senior care protocols and procedures help you to help your dog age gracefully, healthily, and happily. Our veterinarians recommend twice-yearly exams for senior dogs. These exams may include additional lab work and other services as necessary. Your canine family member deserves the best routine care available, and we're happy to offer so many annual exam care services for them here in Annandale. If you have any questions about your dog's medical needs or need to make an appointment, give us a call at (703) 256-8414.

Dog Annual Exams — Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dog need a yearly exam if they seem healthy?
Dogs age much faster than humans — one year can equal 5-7 human years. A yearly exam catches conditions like heart murmurs, dental disease, early kidney changes, and lumps while they are still manageable. Many serious conditions have no visible symptoms early on.

What does the annual exam include?
A full physical from head to tail, vaccine review and updates, parasite prevention assessment, heartworm and fecal testing, and discussion of nutrition, weight, and any behavioral changes. For senior dogs we typically add bloodwork and a urinalysis.

What vaccines does my dog need each year?
Rabies is required by law in Virginia. DA2PP boosters are given on a 1- or 3-year schedule depending on vaccine type. We assess lifestyle vaccines including Bordetella, leptospirosis, Lyme, and canine influenza at each annual visit.

Can I combine the annual exam with other services?
Absolutely. Many pet owners combine their annual exam with dental cleaning, nail trims, microchipping, or bloodwork to make the most of a single visit. Let us know when scheduling and we will coordinate everything.

What if my dog needs care between annual exams?
Come in any time. We are open 24/7 and never charge an additional fee for after-hours or emergency visits. Your dog's health does not follow a schedule, and neither do we.