Our Services

Senior Pet Care

Did you know that pets age faster than people and that dogs over 50-60 pounds are considered “seniors” as early as 8 years of age? Small breed dogs and cats are considered “seniors” at 10 years? Just as our health care needs change as we age, your pet’s health care needs also change. Nutritional needs, exercise habits, and many aspects of your pet’s daily routine can change as your pet ages. But how can you tell the difference between “normal” aging and a medical problem? As in humans, some health issues that affect older pets can begin with very subtle changes that may go unnoticed until the problem has become serious.

Wellness visits are important for every stage of your pet’s life, but especially for a senior, so don’t forget to keep your senior pet’s scheduled wellness appointments, we recommend all senior pets come in for a wellness visit at least once every six months. This is the best way to help us help you protect your pet as he or she ages. Even if your senior pet is already being treated for a medical condition, treatment recommendations can change as a condition progresses. Sometimes medication dosages need to be adjusted, or medication may need to be changed. We also recommend a senior blood panel at least once a year at one of the wellness visits. Dogs are required to have an annual heartworm test done to maintain a prescription for heartworm preventative. This is a great time to have the senior blood panel done since we will already be taking a blood sample. Other diagnostic testing is sometimes recommended but only on a case by case basis, these tests are important for senior pets because they allow us to evaluate how your pet’s health is either responding to current management strategies or changing with age.

Your senior pet’s wellness examinations is also your chance to have us address any of your questions or concerns about your pet. We welcome your questions and encourage you to be involved in decisions regarding your pet’s health care.

Older pets make wonderful companions, and thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, pets are living longer than ever! You are an important ally in your senior pet’s health care. We are here to help ensure that your pet is safe and happy throughout the “golden years.”