Similar to humans, pets suffer from various age-related illnesses. When we make it our goal to promote senior pet health, we can prevent diseases that threaten longevity and quality of life in our furry aging friends. In other words, early detection makes a huge difference when it comes to effective treatment. For the owners of senior pets, this means more time together – what could be better than that?

On It!

Animals age faster than humans. On average, one human year is equivalent to about 7 animal years. When a pet reaches age 6 or 7, our approach to wellness shifts from annual appointments to semi-annual care.  

Taking into account previously recorded baseline values (i.e., information we took when your pet was younger and in top health), we have a basis for comparison. If there are significant changes, we can move quickly to diagnose problems and manage symptoms.

Frequent Evaluations

Your pet’s weight is an obvious indicator of health. Senior pets tend to slow down a bit. Decreased activity paired with little or no dietary changes often result in weight gain. With obesity and diabetes on the rise, we recommend portion control, maintaining daily exercise, and checking your pet’s weight on a regular basis.

Nutritional changes may be necessary to support senior pet health. Please consult us before switching to a different food or meal schedule.

Move It or Lose It

Osteoarthritis is also impacted by weight. Your senior pet’s health will benefit from daily attention to mobility and minimizing pain associated with movement. You may need to install steps up to the bed or couch, insulate your home from cold drafts, or provide pain medication to reduce inflammation.

Your Valued Input

You know your pet better than anyone. In fact, it’s often a pet owner’s instincts that can first reveal a pet’s illness. We encourage you to write down any subtle shifts in behavior, habits, and any departures from your pet’s regular routine.

The Importance of Diagnostics

Senior pet health hinges on observations, frequent professional evaluations, and, of course, diagnostics. There’s only so much we can see on the surface. Complete blood cell counts, serum chemistry panels, and urine tests are incredibly helpful for early intervention. Ideally, we want to detect problems before they’re visible rather than wait for abnormal changes to present themselves.

The Meaning of Dental Care

Many problems stem from poor dental care. Periodontal disease is a major concern for many senior pets, but with regular brushing at home and routine professional cleanings, your pet’s teeth can remain strong, clean, and protected against plaque and tartar.

Senior Pet Health

From the tip of their nose to the end of their tail, we inspect every part of your pet’s aging body for signs of injury, illness, or discomfort. If you have additional questions about senior pet health, please let us know.