An aging pet needs special care to support their overall health and wellbeing. As your pet starts to enter their golden years, you’ll notice subtle changes like grey hairs in their coat or moving more slowly. Senior care means more frequent veterinary visits and specific recommendations to ensure your pet continues to live a happy life.
Which birthday marks my pet’s senior years?
Age is nothing but a number, with some pets only showing signs of aging well into their golden years. Other pets start showing signs of aging as early as their 5th birthday. Depending on your pet’s breed and overall health, the aging process could look different for them. The most important thing is recognizing how your pet’s care will need to change, both at home and with our veterinary team, to ensure all their needs are being met. Thanks to advancements in modern medicine, furry friends are living longer than ever. We want to ensure you’re able to enjoy your pet’s company well into their golden years. If you have questions about your pet’s senior years, you can contact us at 604-940-0899.
How often should I book appointments?
We’d like to see your pet at least twice a year but this could increase if they have underlying health issues. During your pet’s senior wellness exam, we’ll develop a care plan that’s specific to their unique needs. We’ll perform a few screening tests to assess your pet’s overall health and determine if they’re showing signs of any common diseases that senior pets are more susceptible to. Some of these include arthritis, kidney disease, liver disease, hypertension, diabetes and thyroid problems. We’ll also perform a physical exam to determine your pet’s mobility, alertness, hearing and eyesight. Signs of hearing loss include your pet taking more time to respond after you’ve called them or it seems like they’re ignoring you. This is also a great time to share any observations or concerns you have that could inform the care your pet receives.
How can I support my aging pet at home?
There are a range of adjustments you’ll need to make at home to better support your senior pet. Some of these include:
- Making toys, food and water easily accessible
- Integrating daily physical activity and movement
- Ensuring your pet stays well hydrated
- Installing mobility aids like stools
- Grooming regularly
- Spending lots of quality time together
