Do you have a senior pet? Dogs over age eight and cats older than ten are considered to be senior. If your pet has graduated to the ‘older’ age bracket, the AAHA recommends twice-yearly veterinary exams. Even if your pet seems perfectly healthy, checkups help catch age-related issues early and support a longer, more comfortable life.
Time Flies. Do you notice time speeds up as you age? Don’t let your busy days allow you to put off your senior pet’s well-being. With November designated as Senior Pet Month, now is the perfect time to schedule a wellness exam. A proactive checkup ensures your pet is feeling their best before the season fills with travel, visitors, and festive distractions.
Time is a Thief. The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and the winter holidays tend to fill up quickly, not just for families, but for veterinary appointments as well. By booking your senior pet’s wellness exam in October, you avoid the seasonal rush and give your pet the attention they deserve before colder weather and holiday disruptions set in. (Pro Tip: Bring your pet in Halloween attire, and we’ll enter your goblin’s picture into our pet costume contest!)
Test Time. Senior pets, typically those aged seven and older, benefit from more comprehensive evaluations. Our hospital offers advanced diagnostic tools that help detect age-related conditions early:
- Bloodwork: A full panel can reveal issues such as kidney disease, diabetes, liver function abnormalities, and thyroid imbalances.
- Imaging: X-rays and ultrasound allow us to assess internal organs, detect arthritis, and identify masses or other structural changes.
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: High blood pressure is common in older pets and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Regular monitoring helps us catch it early.
A thorough exam will give us a deeper understanding of your pet’s health, often uncovering conditions before symptoms appear. Early detection means earlier intervention, and better outcomes.
Holiday Time. Senior pets may experience subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or mobility that can be easy to overlook anytime, but especially during holiday craziness. A wellness exam now will make sure your pet is ready to enjoy the holidays comfortably, whether that means joining family festivities, relaxing in a quiet corner, or hanging out with us at Doggy Daycare or Boarding.
It’s Time! Contact us today to schedule your senior pet’s wellness exam. November is dedicated to celebrating senior pets, their loyalty, wisdom, and companionship. It’s also a reminder to prioritize their health and well-being. By scheduling a wellness exam now, you’re giving your pet the gift of proactive care and more comfortable years ahead.