When our pets begins to slow down, stiffen up, or cannot hear or see us as they used to, they need our help and understanding.
Pets advance in age much faster than people do, and two main types of changes occur: Physical Changes such as hearing loss, changes in vision or reduced activity. These changes are normal and cannot usually be prevented and Pathological Changes such as heart disease, kidney disease, cognitive (brain) disease, arthritis or dental disease. These changes are, to some extent, preventable – or can at least be successfully managed.
Often, these physical and pathological changes are considered by owners to be just part of normal ageing and they presume that nothing can be done. Hence, it does not prompt a visit to the veterinarian and the owners continue to live (and sometimes struggle) with their pet until they can no longer tolerate the advancing issues.
Maintaining a healthy approach
The healthcare your pet receives throughout their lifetime can help minimise and prevent disease as they age. This includes preventative healthcare (such as vaccinations, and parasite control), exercise, dental care (including regular checks and prophylactic cleaning treatments), eating a balanced diet (nutritional requirements will change as our pets age) and top-to-tail regular physical veterinary examinations.
How do I give my pet the best ‘senior life’ possible?
The answer is early diagnosis and treatment, which can be achieved by visiting the vet for twice yearly check-ups (especially for pets over the age of 7 years).
Dogs and cats age much faster than we do – and as a result, health problems progress much more rapidly. A trip to the vet once a year is much like us visiting our doctor every 5-7 years! Addressing ailments as they arise will almost certainly keep your pet with you for longer.
Common problems areas for your ageing pet:
Observe your pet for the early signs of ageing and age-related diseases including:
- Change in appetite
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Loss of housetraining
- Difficulty rising, walking or climbing stairs
- Confusion, disorientation or unusual behaviour changes (such as vocalisation or increased anxiety)
- A persistent cough
- The appearance of lumps or bumps
- Bad breath, plaque, or bleeding gums
- Diarrhoea, constipation or vomiting
- Change in sleep patterns (sleeping more, or waking up during the night)
- Excessive drinking and/or urination
- Restlessness
Our senior pet month consultation special includes a comprehensive checkup, cytological testing of up to two lumps or bumps – or one arthritis injection, and full blood and urine testing!
Book your senior sweetheart in for a check now and save $140!
Offer ends July 31st!
