Senior Care

As your loyal companion gets older, the care they receive needs to change accordingly. Your pet may be considered a senior anywhere from 7 to 10-years-old depending on their species and breed. At our hospitals, we know how important it is to give senior pets a good quality of life, so their days continue to be happy.

What physical and mental changes will I notice in my senior pet?

Aging will affect your pet in different ways, and it may take a while for you to spot the changes. As a senior, your pet may experience the following:

1. Hearing loss
2. Eyesight problems
3. Confusion
4. Greying around the face
5. Less energy
6. Increase/decrease in drinking, eating or urinating
7. Weight loss or gain
8. Thinning hair

Your pet will also be more prone to developing illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, osteoarthritis, hormone disorder, obesity and cognitive dysfunction (Alzheimer’s disease). A veterinarian can examine your pet and get ahead of these diseases.

How often should my senior pet have a wellness exam?

Wellness exams are the cornerstone to optimal health in seniors. With routine exams, our veterinarian can catch unknown health risks, monitor known conditions/diseases and make lifestyle recommendations to make their golden years more manageable. Your pet should have two veterinary exams each year to ensure their overall well-being.

Do senior pets still need vaccinations or deworming?

Yes, vaccines and deworming are preventative care that your senior pet will still need. Older pets are often dewormed every three months or when the need arises. Vaccines are effective for a certain amount of time, so your veterinarian will determine when older pets are due for their shots.