Has your senior pet had his yearly checkup yet? It is important to remember that cats and dogs age more rapidly than we age. The average age for a cat is 13 to 15 years, for a dog the average age is 12 to 14 years (a little longer for smaller dogs, a little shorter for larger dogs.)
For the health of your senior pet, it is recommended to have yearly exams at your veterinarian’s office. During these exams, the doctor will give your pet a thorough physical exam and may suggest lab work such as a urinalysis, blood work or x-rays. This lab work can show if there are invisible problems that are beginning, such as diabetes or heart or kidney disease.
With prevention, early detection and treatment, pets can continue to live long and happy lives well into their senior years. Make an appointment for a senior exam with one of our veterinarians. We would be happy to discuss any questions or problems you may be having with your senior pet such as arthritis, nutritional needs and even incontinence and dementia.
