Garrettsville Animal Hospital

 

Senior Wellness begins early

For many of us, our pets are family members, friends and companions. As they get older (and since they rarely complain) we have to be extra vigilant about our pets' health and happiness.

Your pets' senior years don't have to be boring or worrisome...

Here are a few simple things you can do to help prepare your pets for their "Golden Years":

   *  Have a predictable daily routine for your pets so they know precisely when they eat, go outside, sleep and play.  This will help you identify any "breaks" in the routine that might signal to you that your pet is feeling under the weather!

   *  Measure your pets' food and water, so you know exactly how much they eat and drink. If "Fido" normally gobbles his food and all of a sudden isn't in the mood for breakfast, you'll know he's having a bad day. 

   *  Most pets start to slow down as they get older. Many won't want to play like they used to, or act "too sophisticated" to play with that rubber pork chop or that purple mouse. Just because your pet prefers  to sleep on the couch and watch T.V. all day, does not mean you should stop inviting him to play or to go for a walk.

   *  Finally, plan on seeing your veterinarian at least on a yearly basis for wellness exams.  Some pets with chronic illness will benefit from twice yearly exams, to closely monitor changes. Your senior pet is likely to experience more health problems that your veterinarian can help detect and treat before they cause your pet to suffer.  A general Senior Wellness exam should include a physical exam, dental exam, urinalysis, eye pressure test and bloodwork.  Following your veterinarian's recommendation for your senior pet will help keep your pet from suffering from undetected illness and may help prevent unexpected expenses. 

Monitor your senior pets for early signs of illness. Call your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:   Change in eating habits, change in water consumption, weight loss or gain, difficulty passing stool or urine, frequent urination, inappropriate urination, vomiting or diarrhea, inactivity, lameness (persistent or recurring), hair loss, sores or scabs on the skin, bad breath, heavy or rapid breathing while resting, lumps or growths or anything else that seems to be "different". 

                                           Remember.... Age is not a disease, "senior" is just the next stage in your pet's life!!