Senior Pets

At Front Range Animal Hospital, we know how important senior pets are to their human families.  These pets have given years of unconditional love and devotion to their humans.  They have helped their humans weather ‘storms’ in their lives, provided consistency and support during moves, job changes, loss of a loved one.  Many seniors have seen the kids grow from toddlers to teens, been the kids’ playmate or protector, taught the kids about love and responsibility.  Many have shared outdoor adventures with their humans.  These seniors are truly special, and that is why we take their health so seriously!

If you have a senior pet, there are many ways you can help your pet to feel great and live longer, in spite of the aging process. The key is to detect any illness in the earliest stages, often before it is apparent to you or your pet.  Early detection of age-related problems allows us to treat the problem more easily, with less expense to you, and greater success.

Maximizing your senior pet’s health starts with regular examinations by the doctor, at least twice a year for pets 8 years of age and older, as things can change so quickly in the health of an older pet.  Large and giant breed dogs age quicker and their twice yearly exams should start at age 6. The doctor will collect information from you to look for clues of problems brewing.  An observant owner can be so helpful!  The comprehensive nose-to-tail examination will check for health problems common in seniors—dental disease, cataracts, heart disease, lumps and bumps, arthritis, abdominal masses, skin and coat changes, weight changes, changes in the size of the internal organs, and more.

We strongly recommend that all senior pets get a laboratory evaluation every 6 months.  It is amazing to us how often these tests turn up health problems in pets that appear perfectly normal!  And the earlier we treat these problems, the better it is for your pet.  Blood Chemistries can evaluate the liver, kidneys and pancreas, and check protein levels, glucose, electrolytes, and thyroid levels. We also look for clues of hormone imbalances, and some types of cancer.  A blood count checks for anemia, inflammation and infection.  A urinalysis evaluates for kidney function, urinary infections (very common in older pets, often without symptoms), and urinary crystals that might cause stones.  Depending on the doctor’s examination, investigation with xrays or EKG might also be recommended. Fecal exams for parasites should be done annually.

Once your senior pet is completely evaluated, the doctor will educate you on any health issues your pet might have.  She’ll have recommendations to help solve or control the health issue, and discuss any medication, nutritional supplements, or special nutrition that might be helpful.  The doctors at Front Range Animal Hospital love being a partner in your senior pet’s health care and are readily available to answer any questions you might have.