FVH Senior Pet Handout
Check out Dr. Kummer’s blog entry on arthritis and pets.
As our pets enter their golden years, their medical needs change. This can be a stressful time for many owners as they worry about the discomfort their pet may be experiencing. At Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital, we empathize with the changes this time of life brings and strive to offer your senior pet the best care to their make quality of life the top priority.
Pet Aging Considerations:
- Arthritis and Mobility
- Kidney and Liver Function
- Obesity
- Advancing Dental Disease
Many owners are unaware just how old their pet is in “human years”. For smaller dog breeds the transition from adult to senior is 8-10 years, while large breed dogs may be entering senior status as early as 5-7 years! Cats generally enter their senior years after age 10. The medical needs of these “old timers” varies based on breed and size. At FVH, we tailor our recommendations based on your pet, with the physical exam becoming even more critical as age advances. That’s why it is highly recommended a visit to the veterinarian take place every 6 months.
Thankfully, the field of veterinary medicine is ever changing with advancements in the care available for your pet greatly increasing longevity, and most importantly, the quality of life. From scientifically formulated senior diets and nutraceuticals, to advanced Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID), we can keep your pet active and comfortable as they enter their advanced years.