A new year is the perfect time to reset—not just for us, but for our pets too. Whether you share your home with a playful dog, a curious cat, or a senior companion, starting 2026 with a plan for veterinary care helps your pet stay healthier, happier, and more comfortable all year long.
Here in Frisco, Texas, our pets face unique challenges—from year-round parasites to seasonal allergies and heat. This New Year health checklist will help you know what to schedule and, just as importantly, remind you that you don’t have to figure it out alone. Talk to us—we’re here to help guide you every step of the way at Frisco Vet Care.
Schedule Your Pet’s Veterinary Checkup
Routine veterinary checkups are one of the most important things you can do for your dog or cat. Even when your pet seems healthy, a professional exam can catch subtle changes early.
During your pet’s checkup at Frisco Vet Care, we:
- Perform a full nose-to-tail exam
- Monitor weight and body condition
- Check joints, eyes, ears, skin, and heart
- Talk with you about behavior, diet, and lifestyle
If your pet is entering their senior years, we may recommend more frequent checkups. If you’re unsure what your pet needs this year, talk to us—we’ll help you create a plan that fits your pet and your family.
Stay Up to Date on Dog and Cat Shots
Vaccines—often called dog and cat shots—are a key part of preventive veterinary care. These protect your pet from serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.
Common vaccines we may recommend include:
- Rabies (required by Texas law)
- Distemper/parvo for dogs
- Bordetella for dogs who board or visit groomers
- FVRCP and FeLV for cats
Every pet is different. Instead of guessing or Googling,
Vaccines—often called dog and cat shots—are a key part of preventive veterinary care. These protect your pet from serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.
Common vaccines we may recommend include:
- Rabies (required by Texas law)
- Distemper/parvo for dogs
- Bordetella for dogs who board or visit groomers
- FVRCP and FeLV for cats
Every pet is different. Instead of guessing or Googling, talk to us at Frisco Vet Care about which shots your dog or cat actually needs in 2026.
Don’t Skip Flea and Heartworm Prevention
In Frisco and throughout North Texas, flea prevention and heartworm prevention are needed year-round. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes don’t disappear just because it’s winter.
We recommend:
- Annual heartworm testing
- Monthly heartworm prevention
- Consistent flea prevention for dogs and cats
If you’ve missed a dose or aren’t sure what product is best, talk to us—we can help you get back on track safely.
Plan Ahead for Teeth Cleaning and Dental Care
Teeth cleaning is one of the most overlooked parts of veterinary care, yet dental disease affects many dogs and cats by age three.
Signs your pet may need a dental evaluation include:
- Bad breath
- Red or inflamed gums
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Pawing at the mouth
Professional teeth cleaning can prevent pain, infection, and tooth loss. We’re happy to talk with you about what to expect and whether 2026 is the right time for your pet’s dental care at Frisco Vet Care.
Review Nutrition, Weight, and Activity
Your pet’s needs change over time. During your veterinary visit, we can:
- Check your pet’s weight and body condition
- Discuss diet options
- Recommend safe exercise goals
Maintaining a healthy weight helps prevent joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease—especially for dogs and cats living active Frisco-area lifestyles.
Consider Preventive Bloodwork
Routine bloodwork helps us detect health issues early, often before symptoms are visible at home. This is especially important for senior pets.
If you’re unsure whether your pet needs lab work this year, talk to us—we’ll walk you through the benefits and answer all your questions.
Start 2026 With Frisco Vet Care
Preventive care isn’t about waiting for something to go wrong—it’s about building a relationship with your veterinary team and giving your pet the best life possible.
If your dog or cat is due for checkups, shots, flea prevention, or teeth cleaning, talk to us at Frisco Vet Care today. We’re proud to care for pets and families in Frisco, Texas, and we’re here whenever you need guidance.
