By Dr. Ian Kupkee
Sabal Chase Animal Clinic
The American Veterinary Medical Association celebrates Pet Wellness Month every October. It’s important to ensure all our pet’s routine screenings and procedures are either up to date or scheduled before the holiday season starts clamoring for our attention.
Since sticking to a budget can be daunting in times of inflation, many veterinary facilities offer wellness plans. Wellness plans allow pet parents to budget for annual veterinary care by converting the cost of routine visits into a modest monthly fee. Wellness plans generally include vaccinations, parasite screenings, and bloodwork, but can be customized to fit your pet’s individual needs. A wellness plan for a puppy or kitten can be adjusted to include a spay or neuter procedure, whereas a senior pet’s plan should include screening for diseases that are common in older pets. Since all adult pets need annual dental cleanings, choose a plan that includes dental care. Your veterinary team can help you find the wellness plan best suited for your pet, as well as your budget.