As dogs and cats get older, they need more attention and special care. Our senior wellness program can help your pet remain fit and healthy as he or she ages and help us catch any potential problems earlier, so they’re easier and economical to treat or manage. Timely veterinary exams can help your pet’s longevity.
Diagnosing diseases and certain conditions early is important throughout a pet’s life, but it becomes even more critical when your dog or cat enters his or her senior years. The risks of various ailments like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, hormone disorders, heart, kidney and liver problems all increase with age
Senior status in terms of years varies depending on your pet’s breed and size. Smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs, and cats generally live longer than dogs. We can help you determine what life and health stage your pet is in.
Dogs and cats may not show any signs of even serious diseases until they are advanced. As your pet ages we recommend that you bring your pet in for an annual baseline exam and diagnostic workup. This will help us and also give us a record of what’s normal for your pet so we can keep track of any changes. In most cases, we suggest this checkup for when your dog turns 7 years of age or your cat turns 8 years of age. Thereafter, your senior pet will benefit from more frequent veterinary exams and diagnostic testing.
We can manage most symptoms that are commonly attributed to age, including those associated with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to Alzheimer’s in humans). We can also improve your pet’s quality of life in many ways; by identifying and preventing or reducing pain, recommending a nutrition and exercise plan, and suggesting environmental modifications.
Senior pets have been our companion for years and as they age they require special management and care. The 16th Avenue Animal Hospital in Markham will tailor a senior wellness plan to your pet’s individual needs. If you have any questions, we can discuss our senior wellness program in more detail. Call us today on 905-554-72 to schedule your pet’s exam!
