As dogs move into the senior phase of life, they experience changes that are very similiar to aging humans. Diseases and conditions that are commonly known to affect older people also affect our canine companions: kidney, heart and liver disease, tumors, cancer, diabetes, depression, arthritis, thyroid conditions, hormonal problems, neuroses and loss of sensory perception. Understanding these changes and how you can provide for your pet's needs are essential to quality of life.

Age is never just a number but rather a measure of the effect of aging to the body. Variables such as genetics, nutrition and environment all contribute to how your dog will be influenced by the aging process. However, for practical purposes, your dog is considered to be "senior" at 7 years old. Small dogs tend to have a longer life expectancy than medium to large breeds. Since dogs age more rapidly than people (see age chart), dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6 months.

Studies have shown that as many as 23% of senior dogs that appear healthy upon physical examination have an underlying disease. Once symptoms appear. the conditions may be too difficult or costly to diagnose or treat. A Senior Wellness Exam includes laboratory tests so sensitive they can detect the onset of diseases and conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective.

Diagnostic Wellness Exams

More Frequent Examinations

While an annual exam may be sufficient for younger dogs, we may want to see your older dog at least every 5 months. For a dog, this represents 1 to 3 years in the life of a human. Special attention will be paid to your dog's teeth and gums, skin and coat, heart, lungs, kidneys, digestive system, eyes and joints. Annual laboratory tests can detect the onset of disease or abnormal health conditions.

Nutrition and Environment

A proper diet and suitable environment are critical to your dog's continued health and comfort. Our veterinarians and hospital staff may advise you on modifications for your aging pet. This may include a special diet based on your dog's specific needs, or an exercise regimen for your senior pet.

Medication

Conditions such as arthritis are very common disorders in older pets. New medications are now available that are both safe and effective for pain management, Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and other age-related diseases.

Senior Wellness Checklist For Dogs Signs Yes No Change in water consumption Change in appetite Lethargic or depressed (listless behavior) Change in urine production (watch carefully for increased amounts of urine in litterbox) Constipation Change in attitude (irritabiliry) Change in sleeping patterns Noticeable decrease in vision Vomiting Diarrhea Weight Gain Weight Loss Bad breath or drooling Lumps and bumps on the skin Excessive Panting Breathing heavily or rapidly at rest Increased stiffness, trouble jumping, or walking

Senior Wellness Checklist This checklist can help you observe behaviors and symptoms that may indicate a potential health problem in your senior dog. If your dog is experiencing one or more of these signs, please let us know. The goal of a Senior Wellness Exam is to maintain the highest quality of life for the longest possible time. Together, we can make the senior years the most rewarding you and your dog have ever shared.