SENIOR PET VETERINARY CARE IS IMPORTANT!

Did you know that by age seven, most pets–especially large breed dogs–are already considered to have reached their senior years? Your pet may begin to experience signs of aging sooner or later depending on their size, breed, and current health condition.  If you have a senior pet, it is important to be watchful of changes that may occur in your cat or dog.  As your pet ages, there are a variety of illnesses they can face including osteoarthritis, kidney, heart and liver disease and hormone disorders such as diabetes.  Early intervention means your pet will be more comfortable and healthier as he or she ages.

Changes you may see in your senior pet:

As your dog or cat matures, you will see changes in your pet’s physical appearance or notice behavior changes.  Your pet may begin to “slow down” or respond less quickly to stimuli around them. There are, however, signs that you should be aware of that could indicate a problem. Please call us right away if you notice any of the following signs in your pet:

• A lump or growth
• Depression or listless behavior
• Weight loss
• Increase or decrease in appetite
• Increased water intake
• Excess urination
• Abnormal stool or irregular bowel movements
• Vomiting
• Bloated abdomen
• Decrease in movement (trouble walking or less exercising)
• Pain with movement or when being handled
• Excessive panting
• Heavy or rapid breathing at rest
• Bad breath or drooling

Regular senior pet wellness exams are more important than ever.  Senior care starts with regular, comprehensive, exams.  At Lake Worth Animal Hospital, senior wellness exams include:

• An in-depth senior wellness exam, including a dental evaluation
• Diagnostic testing that may include a senior dog blood profile analysis (blood count and blood chemistry panel)
• Urine and fecal analysis
• Vaccinations, parasite protection, heartworm testing and prevention
• Nutrition and diet counseling
• Behavioral evaluation and counseling

In addition to the care we provide for your pet at Lake Worth Animal Hospital, there are measures you can take at home to keep them healthy and free of age-related health conditions. A balanced diet and regular play and exercise are an important step in keeping your pet happy and healthy. This will help your pet maintain their ideal weight and prevent or delay the onset of chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.

We are here to help you and your family pet through every life stage. Please contact us at 561-582-3364 to schedule a senior wellness exam for your pet and to discuss any questions you may have about your mature pet.