Price Comparison
Compare prices across provider types
| Provider | Type | Price | Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Vetco (Petco)Lowest | Retail Clinic | $0-$25 | No Exam FeeWalk-Ins | Basic exam may be free with vaccine purchase |
ShotVet (PetSmart) | Retail Clinic | $0-$30 | No Exam FeeWalk-Ins | Exam often included with vaccine packages |
Humane Society/SPCA | Nonprofit Clinic | $0-$35 | Free or reduced cost; may have income requirements | |
Low-Cost Community Clinics | Nonprofit | $0-$25 | Often free during vaccine events | |
Veterinary Schools | Teaching Hospital | $50-$100 | Thorough exam by students under faculty supervision | |
Traditional Veterinary Office | Full-Service Vet | $50-$100 | Comprehensive exam with full health assessment |
Retail Clinic
Basic exam may be free with vaccine purchase
Retail Clinic
Exam often included with vaccine packages
Nonprofit Clinic
Free or reduced cost; may have income requirements
Nonprofit
Often free during vaccine events
Teaching Hospital
Thorough exam by students under faculty supervision
Full-Service Vet
Comprehensive exam with full health assessment
Prices shown are approximate and may not reflect current rates. Information sourced from provider websites and public records. Last verified dates indicate when pricing was last confirmed. Always verify directly with the provider before scheduling a visit.
Understanding the Difference
What you need to know
A wellness exam is a routine physical examination to assess your pet's overall health. During the exam, a veterinarian checks vital signs, weight, eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, skin, and abdomen. The exam is an opportunity to discuss diet, behavior, and preventative care needs. At retail and nonprofit clinics, basic exams may be included with vaccine purchases. Traditional veterinary offices provide more comprehensive assessments and can address concerns about existing health conditions.
Important Notes
Before you visit a provider
- Exam scope varies by provider type - retail exams are more basic than full-service vet exams
- Additional diagnostics (bloodwork, urinalysis) are separate costs
- Senior pets may benefit from comprehensive wellness panels
- Always verify current pricing directly with the provider
- Some providers offer free first-visit exams for new patients
People Also Ask
Common questions about wellness exam pricing
Where can I find low-cost pet wellness exams?
Based on publicly available information, many nonprofit clinics and community vaccination events offer free or very low-cost basic wellness checks. Retail clinics at Petco and PetSmart may include a basic exam with vaccine purchases at no additional charge. Traditional veterinary offices typically charge $50 to $100 for a comprehensive wellness exam.
Is a wellness exam at a low-cost clinic the same as at a regular vet?
The scope of wellness exams varies by provider. Basic exams at retail and nonprofit clinics cover essential physical checks but may be shorter and less comprehensive than exams at traditional veterinary offices. Full-service vets typically spend more time, may include dental assessment, and can address complex health concerns during the visit.
Do I need an appointment for a wellness exam?
Requirements vary by provider. Retail clinics at Petco and PetSmart may offer walk-in availability, especially when combined with vaccine visits. Nonprofit clinics and traditional veterinary offices typically require appointments. Contact the provider to confirm their current scheduling requirements.
How often does my pet need a wellness exam?
Most veterinary organizations recommend annual wellness exams for adult pets and twice-yearly exams for senior pets (typically age 7+). Puppies and kittens may need more frequent visits during their first year. Regular exams can catch health issues early when they are often easier and less expensive to treat.
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Helpful Resources
Pricing Methodology & Disclaimers
Data Sources: Prices were gathered from publicly available provider websites, published price lists, and community-reported data as of February 2026. Data is not verified and may be outdated.
Prices Are Estimates: All prices shown may not reflect current pricing. Actual costs vary significantly by geographic location, pet size, weight, health status, and individual provider pricing policies. Always verify costs directly with providers before visiting.
Independent Directory: PawCost is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with any provider listed. We do not verify, recommend, or guarantee any services or pricing.
Not Medical Advice: This comparison is for informational purposes only. Consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's specific healthcare needs.