October 11, 2019
“Old age is not a disease—it is strength and survivorship, triumph over all kinds of vicissitudes and disappointments, trials and illnesses.” —Maggie Kuhn
Perhaps you have noticed your older pet slowing down a little, or having trouble doing the things she enjoys. As she moves into her later life, more frequent medical assessments, attention to comfort measures, and in-home adjustments will be necessary to ensure she enjoys her golden years. The last years of your pet’s life can be as enjoyable as her first, if you are willing to embrace your senior pet and address her unique needs so you can enjoy added time together.
As your pet ages, she is more likely to develop ailments and diseases that interfere with normal body functions. Because a lot can change in a year, we recommend increasing veterinary wellness visits with your pet’s primary veterinarian to twice yearly after seven years of age.
Age is not a disease, although pet owners often attribute disease signs to old age, instead of pursuing diagnostics and treatments to keep their aging pet comfortable and active. Many diseases, such as kidney failure, do not cause obvious clinical signs until organ function has severely deteriorated and few treatment options can help. A senior pet checkup will include diagnostic tests, such as blood work and an ECG, to detect organ failure and diseases in their early stages, when treatment options can slow progression and help your pet enjoy her final years.
Diseases that commonly affect senior pets include:
Much of the slowing down that owners attribute to normal aging is due to a pet’s underlying painful conditions that make normal movements uncomfortable. Your family veterinarian will conduct thorough pain evaluations at your pet’s twice-yearly senior wellness visits to diagnose painful conditions, such as arthritis, that can be treated to improve her quality of life. When appropriate, your veterinarian may refer you to EEVC for alternative treatments that will help to decrease inflammation and pain, including laser therapy and physical rehabilitation. These treatment options can be particularly helpful for pets in organ failure who cannot take many medications. Owners are often pleasantly surprised when their pet returns to an activity level she has not enjoyed for years after her pain is alleviated.
You can make a number of adjustments at home to maintain your pet’s comfort and make normal activities easier, such as:
If you have noticed your senior pet slowing down or acting painful, or she has not had a check-up for more than six months, schedule an appointment with your family veterinarian. If your primary care veterinarian isn’t available, you can contact us 24/7/365.
