Geriatric Health in Pets: Supporting Our Senior Companions
Old age is not a disease! Thanks to advances in preventive care, pets are living longer, healthier lives. As they age, pets may face new health challenges, but these are often manageable and treatable. Regular veterinary check-ups are key to keeping senior pets happy and healthy.
As pets grow older, their bodies and behaviors change. Some of these changes are breed-related, while others are specific to species. Yet, it’s important to remember that these are often manageable and treatable conditions.
Common age-related issues that we see in older pets include arthritis, dental disease, kidney or liver problems, and cognitive decline. But with proper care and monitoring, many of these can be treated, allowing your pet to maintain a good quality of life well into their golden years. Regular veterinary check-ups, including blood work and full examinations, are crucial in catching issues early and ensuring your pet stays healthy as they age.
At Salt River Veterinary Clinic, we recommend a comprehensive approach to geriatric health in pets, which includes:
Full Blood Panel: Includes important tests for conditions such as thyroid issues and a screen for arthritis medications.
Weight/Body Condition Assessment: Monitoring weight and body condition helps detect obesity or muscle loss, both of which can affect a pet’s mobility and overall health.
Mobility/Range of Motion Assessment: We assess your pet’s movement to identify signs of arthritis, stiffness, or discomfort.
Multimodal Pain Management Approach: Includes a variety of treatments such as Therapeutic Laser Therapy and acupuncture to help alleviate pain and improve quality of life.
Dental/Oral Health Assessment and Treatment Plan: Oral health is crucial for senior pets; we assess for dental disease and create a treatment plan to address any issues.
Schedule an appointment today!
Our team is here to support you and your senior pets every step of the way. Regular exams and preventive care allow us to catch problems early and provide treatment to help your senior pets enjoy a longer, healthier life. Make an appointment today and give your pet the gift of wellness and longevity.
