Wellness & Vaccines | Loving Care Animal Clinic

Wellness and Vaccines

At Loving Care Animal Clinic, we believe that preventive care is the foundation of your pet's health and well-being. On this page, you'll find important information that explains why regular check-ups and vaccinations are detrimental to keeping your pet healthy and happy. Our veterinary team is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pet, and we are here to answer any questions you may have. Check out the answers to the common questions listed below, and as always, feel free to give us a call at 231-335-1911.

Prevention

The 5 Pillars of Pet Wellness

Small, consistent habits make the biggest difference in your pet's long-term health.

Nutrition

A complete, balanced diet is the foundation of every other health outcome. We can help you choose the right food for your pet's age and breed.

Probiotics

About 70% of your pet's immune system lives in their gut. Daily probiotics support digestion and strengthen immune response.

Dental Hygiene

Brush teeth 2–3 times per week and schedule annual cleanings. Dental disease is the #1 diagnosed condition in pets.

Preventatives

Year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention protects against parasites that cause serious, sometimes fatal illness.

Regular Vet Visits

Annual exams catch problems early when treatment is simpler and more affordable. Senior pets benefit from twice-yearly checkups.

Vaccinations

Core Vaccinations

Vaccines are one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your pet from serious disease.

Dogs

Core: Da2PP (distemper, adenovirus, parvo, parainfluenza) and Rabies — required by law.

Non-core: Leptospirosis, Lyme, canine influenza, and Bordetella — recommended based on lifestyle and exposure risk.

Cats

Core: FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) and Rabies — essential for all cats.

Non-core: FeLV (feline leukemia) — strongly recommended for outdoor cats or those in multi-cat households.

Puppies and kittens start their vaccination series at 6–8 weeks and receive boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. After that, most vaccines are given annually or every three years depending on the type. We'll build a schedule tailored to your pet.

Rabies vaccination is required for all patients. If proof of a current rabies vaccine cannot be established, one will be administered at your appointment provided your pet is healthy enough to receive it.

FAQ

Wellness & Vaccine FAQ

What happens at a wellness exam?

A wellness exam is a comprehensive check-up that helps to ensure your pet is healthy and free of any medical issues. During the exam, the veterinarian will perform a physical examination of your pet, checking their eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, skin, coat, heart, lungs, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system. They will also ask you about your pet's behavior, diet, exercise, and any changes you have noticed in their health or behavior since their last exam. Based on the findings of the exam, the veterinarian may recommend additional tests or treatments if necessary. Overall, a wellness exam is an important tool for maintaining your pet's health and preventing potential health problems before they become serious.

How often does my pet need to have a wellness exam?

Pets should have a wellness exam at least once a year, but more frequent exams may be necessary for older pets or pets with underlying health conditions. Regular exams allow our veterinary team to detect and treat health problems early, before they become more serious.

Are vaccines safe for my pet?

Yes, vaccines are generally safe for pets. Like any medical treatment, vaccines may cause mild side effects such as fever or lethargy, but these are usually temporary and resolve on their own. Serious reactions to vaccines are rare, and our veterinary team takes steps to minimize any risks associated with vaccination. We will discuss any potential risks and benefits of vaccines with you before administering them to your pet.