Preventive Care Examinations for Dogs and Cats

Did you know that even small changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or activity level can be early signs of illness or injury? Because pets instinctively hide discomfort, many health conditions go undetected until they become serious — which is why routine wellness exams are so important. Getting to know your pet when they are happy and healthy makes it much easier for our veterinarians to recognize when something isn’t right and to intervene before a minor issue becomes a major one.

At Stone Ridge Animal Hospital, we recommend annual preventive care exams for young, healthy dogs and cats, and twice-yearly exams for senior pets and those managing chronic illnesses. Your pet’s preventive care visit may include:

• A comprehensive nose-to-tail physical exam
• Vaccinations tailored to your pet’s unique needs, lifestyle, and risk factors
• Bloodwork to monitor basic organ function (kidneys, liver) and check for infection, anemia, and other blood diseases
• Heartworm testing (blood test)
• Intestinal parasite testing (fecal sample)
• Discussion and implementation of a personalized parasite prevention plan
• Nutritional and weight counseling
• A dedicated time to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your pet’s health

We also offer advanced diagnostics including digital radiography, in-house laboratory testing, and cytology as part of a more comprehensive workup when needed.

Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats in Ocala, FL

Here in Florida, contagious diseases such as leptospirosis, canine influenza, parvovirus, and rabies pose real and serious threats to your pet’s health year-round. Vaccinations remain the single most effective tool we have to protect your pet from these diseases, and at Stone Ridge Animal Hospital, every vaccination protocol is individualized based on your pet’s age, breed, species, lifestyle, and geographic location.

Our veterinarians will discuss which vaccines are recommended for your pet based on their individual circumstances and help you stay on the right schedule to maintain optimal protection.

Parasite Prevention in Ocala, FL : Heartworm, Fleas & Ticks

In Florida, there is no off-season when it comes to parasites. Every month of the year brings exposure to fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes — and the health risks they carry. Fleas and ticks can cause intense discomfort and transmit serious diseases, while a single mosquito bite is all it takes to infect a pet with heartworm — a potentially fatal condition that is far easier to prevent than to treat. Florida is also home to a number of intestinal parasites including hookworms and coccidia, which can cause significant illness in cats and dogs.

All pets residing in Ocala, FL and the surrounding areas should be on a year-round parasite prevention program. At Stone Ridge Animal Hospital, we carry a wide selection of veterinarian-recommended prevention products to protect your pet from the inside out:

Not sure which prevention product is right for your pet? Our veterinary team will help you choose the most appropriate option based on your pet’s species, size, lifestyle, and health history.

Senior Pet Care in Ocala, FL

As pets age, their health needs change — and more frequent monitoring becomes essential. At Stone Ridge Animal Hospital, we recommend comprehensive wellness examinations every six months for senior pets, along with annual senior bloodwork. For pets managing existing health conditions, lab work may be recommended every three to six months to closely monitor organ function and track any changes.

Dental health is also a critical concern in older pets. We recommend professional dental cleanings as needed — which may be annually or as frequently as every three to six months for certain pets. Staying proactive about your senior pet’s health helps us identify problems early and keep them comfortable, active, and happy for as long as possible.

Chiropractic & Acupuncture Care as Part of Your Pet’s Wellness Plan

At Stone Ridge Animal Hospital, we take a holistic approach to your pet’s health — and that means offering more than just traditional veterinary medicine. Our chiropractic and acupuncture care services are designed to complement preventive care and can be especially beneficial for pets experiencing chronic pain, mobility limitations, inflammation, or recovery from injury.

Chiropractic adjustments gently realign the spine and joints to improve nervous system function and support your pet’s natural healing ability. Acupuncture, rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, uses precise needle placement — or, for needle-sensitive pets, our innovative laser therapy approach — to stimulate circulation, reduce pain, and restore balance. These integrative therapies are ideal for senior pets, working animals, and those with arthritis or neurological conditions, and every treatment plan is fully customized to your pet’s unique needs.

Ready to schedule your pet’s next wellness visit? Contact Stone Ridge Animal Hospital at (352) 351-3588 today. We proudly serve Ocala, FL and the surrounding communities and look forward to keeping your pet healthy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Wellness Care in Ocala, FL