ALSAGER ANIMAL CARE CENTER

THE SENIOR PET

It is a true fact of life that all living creatures age. This includes our beloved pets. They too experience the effects of aging much like we do, except at a more rapid pace due to their life span. However, the aging process does not have to render them incapacitated. With the advances in the veterinary field, we can help calm the aches and pains of arthritis, slow the advance of terminal diseases, and help your pets enjoy their golden years.

CARING FOR A SENIOR PET

Caring for your senior pet is very important. At this stage in life your pet's needs have changed. They are no longer a crazy puppy or kitten running at top speed through the house, but a dignified mature animal that is just enjoying family life. Certain aspects of their care should also be changed to ensure continued good health and happiness.

Exercise is crucial for the senior pet. Though they may not be able to chase a ball for hours, they still require routine exercise to help them maintain their weight, ensure bone/joint health, and continue their social life as a member of the family. The amount of exercise will vary from pet to pet, but everyone will benefit from a little play time.

Maintaining a healthy diet is also important. Today's pet food industry offers a variety of pet foods for the senior pet. Since the activity level of the mature pet has decreased, their need for excess calories also decreases. These foods for the mature pet offer a special combination of reduced calories and different additives to help maintain their hair coat, bones, teeth, and overall body functions. Sometimes with age, pets can become intolerant to specific foods. This makes it necessary to adjust their diet to something that is easily digested and easy on their intestinal tract. If you are unsure which type of food would benefit your pet, one of the veterinary staff would be happy to make a recommendation.

Providing a friendly environment for your senior pet is also important. As pets age, they tend to be less tolerant of normal activities. Some older pets become wary of young children who may pounce on them or aggravate them. They also tend to adapt to change less readily than a younger pet. Therefore moving to a new house, going to a kennel, or even to the groomer can be traumatic. With a reassurance of love and patience on you part, these events can be overcome.

With age also comes the loss of sight and hearing. Pets adapt pretty well overtime to these events, but also may become leery of new things, due to the lack of senses on their part. Providing a safe living area where the pet is free from the danger of falling down the stairs or becoming trapped in an area will alleviate stress for them.

Dental health is an important issue for your pet at any stage in their life, but more important as they age. Dental disease and gingivitis can cause heart, liver and kidney problems in pets. It is important that you brush your pet's teeth on a regular basis or have them professionally cleaned at your veterinarian's office.

The most important part of caring for your senior pet is routine visits to your veterinarian. Routine wellness exams are beneficial in findings health concerns in their early stages, where they may be prevented or controlled before they become life threatening issues. Often times routine laboratory screenings will find problems before signs are apparent. At the time of the exam you can discuss any concerns you have with your veterinarian, and they will make recommendations in changes in your pet's care to ensure they are happy and healthy.

With you and your veterinarian working as a team, you will ensure that your senior pet enjoys their golden years with you and your family.

SIGNS TO LOOK FOR IN A SENIOR PET

At a certain point in your pet's life you will notice changes in their behavior and every day habits. You are the crucial link between your pet's health and your veterinary health care provider because what is normal for one pet may not be for another. They are individuals just like us. It is important to discuss any changes you have noticed with your veterinarian at annual wellness visits. The smallest change can be a sign of the beginning of a health problem in your pet that with intervention can make a big difference in the outcome.

Since your pet can not tell you what is wrong, there are certain things you should watch for in your pet's behavior. The following is a list of some things to look for.

Are they urinating or defecating more or less than usual?
Are they drinking more or less than usual?
Has their appetite changed?
Are they sleeping more or seem more distant?
Do they tend be less tolerate than usual?
Do they vomit or have diarrhea frequently?
Have they slowed down and are reluctant to play or go for their usual walks?
Do they seem painful after playing or when getting up from laying down?
Are they gaining or losing weight?
Do they limp?

These are just a few questions you should ask yourself and relay to your veterinarian. Any information you have regarding these questions can help your veterinarian decide what course of action to take to diagnose and treat any medical problems in your pet.

To determine the cause of these changes your veterinarian will need to run some diagnostic testing. The tests may include bloodwork, urinalysis, stool samples, and/or radiographs. Many times the veterinarian can prescribe a treatment plan for your pet, however, sometimes it is necessary to consult with a specialist in extreme cases. Treatment options could be as simple as a diet change or medication. Together, you and your veterinarian can decide what options will be the most beneficial to your pet's needs.