If you have a senior pet, it’s important that they start to receive specialized care in tune with their age. Aging pets face a broad range of health challenges including mobility issues and heart problems. That’s why high quality preventative care is crucial – it can act as the secret sauce in creating a healthy and fulfilling life during your pet’s golden years.

Seeing a veterinarian at least twice a year will help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy, as well as provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have about your pet’s health or behavior. The frequency of these visits will depend on many factors including age, breed, and overall health status of your pet but our goal is to always keep them at their optimum level of comfort so they can enjoy their lives with you.

A wellness exam is one of the best ways to identify any potential health issues your pet is experiencing. Illnesses such as diabetes and kidney disease in dogs, and hyperthyroidism in cats are very common in aging pets and can often go unnoticed if they aren’t monitored by a veterinarian regularly. 

At VIP Animal Hospital, we take pride in getting to know your pet, understanding their needs, and their personalities. Doing this lets us create customized long-term treatment plans that sustain their vitality and movement as they get older.

Signs of aging

Signs of aging depend on the animal, breed, size, and lifestyle. For example, small breed dogs are considered seniors at 11 while large breed dogs gain “senior status” at 8 years of age. Most cats are considered senior from 11 years and up.

Unless you’re a vet, it may be hard to tell if your pet is getting old and in need of extra care. But there are some signs that might tip you off:

  • He or she seems slower than normal. This is the most obvious sign of aging in dogs and cats. If he’s always been a fast runner but now takes his time walking around the block, that could be an indication that he’s slowing down with age—and needs more frequent checkups from the doctor for senior pets just to make sure everything’s okay.
  • His/her coat isn’t as shiny as it used to be (or has lost its luster entirely). Pet owners should watch out for dullness or roughness in their animal companion’s fur. 
  • You spot gray hairs. 
  • He/she gains weight quicker than before, and it is harder to lose.
  • Their vision or hearing isn’t as good as it once was.

Custom long-term treatment plans for Senior Pet Care

At VIP Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to maintaining the health and happiness of your senior pets. We tailor our care to meet all the specific needs of each pet so they remain content for the rest of their lives. When your senior pet gets an exam, we take special care to develop custom treatment plans to sustain their vitality, movement and mobility. We understand that every animal is different and has unique quirks and needs that require care and attention that suits them best.

If you have an aging pet, contact us today to learn more about how our custom treatment plans can set your pet up for healthier, happier golden years.

VIP Difference: Same day appointments always available!

We will never delay taking care of your pet's health. Your pet is VERY IMPORTANT and we will see you TODAY! Call now to schedule a visit or just come on in!