Did you know that pets age faster than people and can be considered “seniors” at around 7 years of age? Just as our health care needs change as we age, your pet’s health care needs also change. Nutritional needs, exercise habits, and many aspects of your pet’s daily routine can change as your pet ages.
As in humans, some health issues that affect older pets can begin with very subtle changes that may go unnoticed until the problem has become serious. Regular wellness visits are important for every stage of your pet’s life, so don’t forget to keep your senior pet’s scheduled wellness appointments. The best way to help protect your pet as they age is to understand the aging process in pets.
Routine wellness blood work and other routine diagnostic testing are important for senior pets because these tests allow us to evaluate how your pet’s health is either responding to current management strategies or changing with age.
Older pets make wonderful companions, and thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, pets are living longer than ever! You are an important ally in your senior pet’s health care. We are here to help ensure that your pet is safe and happy throughout the “golden years.”
Ways to Improve and Maintain Your Senior Pet’s Quality of Life
Senior pet care is a joint effort between you and your veterinarian to ensure that your companion is as happy and pain-free as possible. It involves:
- Feeding them an appropriate diet
- Being observant of any potential changes in your pet’s health and behavior
- Maintaining regular contact with your veterinarian to address said changes
- Taking extra steps to minimize health and safety risks in your pet’s environment
- Always looking out for their best interests and understanding what they truly need