Make the Golden Years their Greatest
It can be hard to admit when we see the signs of old age in our animal companions, but the fact is that most dogs are considered seniors when they hit seven, and cats around nine. Pets age much more rapidly than humans, which means diseases and illnesses also progress quicker.
Southside Animal Hospital encourages you to bring your senior pet in for exams and bloodwork twice yearly to ensure they have the longest, healthiest, most comfortable life possible. This way, we can track how your pet is aging, and we’ll be more likely to catch any developing issues before they become big problems.
Routine diagnostics are one of the most essential parts of a senior exam. Bloodwork monitors red and white blood cell counts and evaluates the function of the kidneys, liver, pancreas, thyroid gland, and more. Health issues like diabetes, reduced kidney function, and thyroid disorders become more common as our pets age, and it’s crucial to monitor them closely for any signs of trouble. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend routine X-rays to evaluate some aspects of your senior pet’s health.
Periodontal disease is always a threat to our pets’ health and comfort, and it’s particularly tough on older pets. That’s why a dental exam is also always part of any senior pet screening.
Finally, let your vet know about any behavior changes in your pet. Once dogs and cats reach the senior stage, monitoring for signs of cognitive dysfunction—such as incontinence, getting lost, or wandering—is very important.
We have more treatments and tools than ever before to help our frosty-faced friends live their best lives—call us at (850) 682-2626 today to schedule a wellness exam for your senior pet!