Our pets our living longer than ever before, thanks to the many advances in veterinary medicine. With this increased lifespan, however, comes an increase in the number and types of medical problems that can affect our pets. Disorders such as arthritis, ocular disease, cancer, organ failure, and others are more prevalent in the golden years. And just as the health care needs of people change as they age, so do the needs of our pets.

When is my pet considered a Senior???

Every year that a dog or cat lives is equivalent to 5-7 human years!! Some smaller breeds of dogs and cats may have a longer lifespan than a large or giant breed dog. Although the lifespan of each individual pet can vary, we generally consider most animals over the age of six a senior. As your pet reaches his or her senior years, examinations and diagnostics will become more important in the early detection of illness.

Laboratory testing is an essential component to monitoring the health of your pet. In addition to heartworm testing for our canine patients, and annual intestinal parasite examinations for all our patients, additional tests will greatly aid in detecting the presence of an underlying disease. As your pet ages, we will recommend blood-chemistry panels at least once a year. If your pet is healthy, this can provide a means to determine baseline blood values and will allow your veterinarian to more easily determine whether your pet’s values are abnormal, even with the most subtle changes. This blood panel allows evaluation of your pet’s kidneys, liver, electrolytes, glucose, and can screen for many endocrine disorders such as thyroid disease or adrenal disease. Additional diagnostic tests such as blood pressure and glaucoma screening may also be recommended for your pet. Early detection of an illness may allow your pet’s condition to be more effectively treated, and allow your pet to live a longer and happier life.

As your pet ages, many of his or her needs may also change. Nutritional needs may change, and your pet may benefit from a diet formulated for a senior pet. Exercise and activities planned for your pet may also change, although keeping your pet as active as possible is very important. We will gladly discuss nutritional and activity recommendations for your pet during his or her visit. With age, your pet may also undergo physical or mental changes. It is essential that any changes in your pet’s behavior be conveyed to your veterinarian during your visit

Communication is essential. During your pet’s visit to our hospital, you will be asked health questions about your pet and can relay any concerns you may have. A thorough history is extremely important in evaluating the health of your pet, and any behavioral or physical changes should be reported to your veterinarian. The following is a list of a few signs to watch for that may indicate a problem:

• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Significant decrease or increase in appetite or water consumption
• Significant change in urinations or defecations
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Lameness, difficulty getting up, difficulty going up or down stairs
• Decreased vision or other noticeable changes of the eyes
• Halitosis (bad breath!), drooling, difficulty chewing
• Significant decrease in activity or amount of time spent sleeping
• Seizures
• Significant change in size of abdomen
• New lumps or nodules on or under the skin
• Coughing, gagging or difficulty breathing
• Sudden collapse or signs of severe weakness

Our goal is to keep your pet living a long and healthy life. With the many new advances in veterinary medicine, we are able to more immediately and effectively diagnose and treat many medical conditions that may otherwise make your pet very ill. With routine blood tests and frequent examinations by a veterinarian, we can help your pet ease into his or her golden years!!!