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Embrace the Golden Years With Senior Wellness
At Arlington Pet Hospital, our dedicated team of doctors and staff is committed to helping your pet live a long, healthy, and joyful life. As our furry friends age, they may encounter various health issues that require attention. Dental problems, thyroid disease, kidney issues, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis are just a few of the common concerns seen in senior pets. Early detection is key, allowing for timely intervention.
A comprehensive yearly health examination plays a vital role in identifying these concerns at an early stage. It is during this examination that we can catch potential issues and provide necessary interventions.
Determining When Your Pet is a “Senior”
Typically, pets are considered “seniors” around six years of age, although the aging process can vary depending on their size and breed. Just like aging humans, pets experience changes as they enter different phases of life. They may face health conditions similar to those affecting older individuals, such as glaucoma, hypertension, kidney, heart, and liver disease, tumors, cancer, diabetes, depression, arthritis, thyroid conditions, hormonal problems, neuroses, and loss of sensory perception. To ensure your pet’s well-being, regular wellness care is essential.
For pets aged six and older, we recommend a comprehensive physical examination that includes blood work and associated laboratory tests to establish a baseline for future comparisons. Senior pets should be seen twice a year to enable early detection of these diseases, resulting in faster treatment and better overall health and well-being. Our veterinarian provides comprehensive medical care tailored to the unique needs of senior pets.
Signs to Observe
Signs of aging in your pet may indicate underlying issues that require attention. As your pet’s most important partner in healthcare, it’s crucial to notify us if your older dog or cat displays any of the following symptoms:
- Stiffness or limping
- Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping
- Breathing difficulties or changes in breathing patterns
- Tremors or shaking
- Excessive scratching or changes to the skin or coat
- Significant weight changes (loss or gain)
- Impaired vision or hearing
- Alterations in urination/defecation habits
- Confusion or disorientation
- Decreased responsiveness
What’s Next?
Regular pet wellness exams are the cornerstone of maintaining your senior pet’s health. At Arlington Pet Hospital, our comprehensive pet exams include a thorough physical evaluation. Our veterinarians and staff will provide valuable guidance on how to keep your senior pet healthy. Adjustments in diet and lifestyle, along with physical therapy for chronic conditions like arthritis, can enhance your pet’s quality of life. We look forward to supporting you and your beloved companion in enjoying many more years together.
