Over the years it has become increasingly clear that the surely the best way to stay healthy is to not get sick in the first place.  Here are 6 steps to optimize health.

1. ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAMS 
The annual physical exam is a great chance to discuss proper care to optimize health before problems develop. As well, early detection offers the best and sometimes the only chance to control or cure many diseases. We strongly recommend annual physical exams for all pets!

2. PET WELLNESS SCREENS
Pet wellness screening consists of regularly running laboratory tests on well animals. These screens are a powerful aid in the early detection of problems. They offer a wealth of information and frequently increase the chance to control or cure many diseases. Generally, these screens are done as part of the annual physical exam and are  a highly recommended, cost-effective form of preventative medicine.  

3. VACCINATIONS
We believe that decisions about vaccinations are extremely important though not necessarily easy. We fully subscribe to the emerging concept of tailoring a vaccine program to the individual pet. This involves deciding which vaccines are essential to protect the pet and which might be considered optional depending on the pet's lifestyle and risk factors. It also involves attempting to limit the frequency vaccines are given while maintaining protection. Ultimately this means every vaccine program must be individualized for each pet. We welcome and strongly encourage discussion with our veterinarians about the best vaccine protocol for each pet.

4. HEARTWORM TESTING AND PREVENTION FOR DOGS
Each year we remind our clients that all dogs should be started on heartworm preventative each spring and tested sometime during the year. Once-a-month heartworm medication is easy, extraordinarily safe and effective. It also prevents most intestinal parasites. We often combine heartworm testing with the annual physical exam and vaccinations. For many dogs, this becomes the only visit they will need during the year.

5. MONTHLY FLEA AND TICK CONTROL
We remain extremely impressed with the results of FRONTLINE PLUS in controlling fleas and ticks. It offers a safe, extremely convenient and effective monthly solution. Though several somewhat similar products are available, we still think FRONTLINE PLUS is the best choice in most situations. 

6. HAPPY WELL-ADJUSTED PETS (AND HUMANS)
We are absolutely amazed at how often it is the simple things that matter most. Very substantial and credible scientific research continues to affirm how much illness and disease is preventable by simple, wholesome life-style changes. Incredibly powerful paths to good health, wellness and longevity include:

• A well balanced diet of high quality food
• Weight control
• Regular exercise (and lots of it)
• Adequate sleep, rest and relaxation
• A purposeful, connected life