Why Senior Care?

            Old age has a way of sneaking up on pets as it does in humans. As your pet gradually changes you may begin to notice that he tires more easily, and moves more slowly. Though aging is an inevitable process, a decline of quality of life is not. We want to help you and your pet to continue to enjoy many years together. Prevention, early detection, and timely intervention of medical problems can have a significant impact on the longevity and quality of life of an older pet.            

How an exam of a senior pet is different from a normal health exam?

Along with the standard exam that all adult patients receive, we will also complete a more detailed exam of the ears, eyes and skin every six months.  A close examination of the mouth and teeth will detect early gum disease and tooth loss.  Some laboratory work such as a complete blood count, blood chemistry, and urinalysis can be key to early detection of many health problems including renal or hepatic failure, intestinal function, and diabetes. Nothing is more frustrating to us than to see an animal with a condition that could have been helped if it would have been caught in time!

Caring for the Older pet

Not only is regular veterinary care important to ensure good health in your pet's senior years, but also changes in home care as well.

Diet                                                                              

 Obesity is a potentially serious and preventable problem of older pets. The metabolic rate of a senior pet slows 10-30%. The extra weight causes increased stress on joints, muscles, and organs. It also lowers the body's resistance to disease, stress, and reduces life expectancy.

Preventing the extra pounds is much easier then trying to get them off.  We can help you to establish a weight goal, diet, or a weight loss plan for your pet if needed.

Exercise

                 Exercise is good for maintaining the senior dog or cats health, but it must be done in moderation.  The older pet tires more easily.  You can adjust by decreasing the duration of exercise or playtime and increasing the frequency.  Also beware that an older animal has a more difficult time adjusting to extreme weather conditions such as heat cold and rain. 

Grooming

                Grooming becomes more important with the aging pet.  Regular grooming will help keep your dog or cat clean, stimulate skin, and restore shine to his coat.

Careful Observation

                 Early detection of trouble signals in crucial to successful treatment.  Take the time to observe your pet's normal functions.  Note changes in eating and drinking patterns, elimination, weight, breathing, movement, eyes, ears, and hair coat.  

Common Age Related Health Problems

Your older pet is likely to benefit from preventive health care measures that will detect common age-related health problems early enough to provide the appropriate medical attention.  Ask us about any of the following health problems.

Common problems seen in senior pets include:

                        The Senior Dog:                                         The Senior Cat