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 SENIOR
CARE PROGRAM
Today, people live longer, healthier lives than they typically did
years ago. In large, part that's due to a better understanding of the
importance of factors that can influence ageing, such as preventative
health care and nutrition. Similarly, the dogs and cats that make up
such an important part of our lives are also living longer, healthier
lives. We are observing that a growing number of our patients are
canine and feline "senior citizens." Part of the reason that pets are
able to live longer now than a few years ago, is the tremendous
advances that have occurred in veterinary medicine. A greater knowledge
of diseases, diagnostic procedures, and treatments are available to us
today. Perhaps the greatest reason for why animals live longer, better
lives, is the increased knowledge that the pet owners have about the
importance of preventive health care measures---immunization, parasite
control, spaying and neutering, and early disease detection, to name a
few.
As dogs and cats age, they, like people, have a greater risk for
developing certain diseases and conditions. For example, we know that
the incidence of problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease,
malignant and benign tumors, arthritis, loss of vision, and oral/dental
disease increases with advancing age. However, when such conditions are
diagnosed in their early stages, treatment to cure such disorders or
delay their progress can be given in most cases. For that reason, we
recommend that all of our dog and cat patients that are 7 years of age
or older, have an annual geriatric evaluation. This evaluation includes
a thorough and complete physical examination, a complete blood count,
blood chemistry profile, urinalysis, and radiography. When the
evaluation is complete and all the tests have been received, we will
discuss the findings with you, and advise you of any needed treatment
or change in diet.
Just as when people have an annual physical, in most cases the results
are normal. Even then, it's good to know that everything is "all right"
and the evaluation provides valuable "baseline data" on which to
compare future results. If a condition is revealed, you know it has
been discovered as early as possible and treatment can be started.
Importantly, we can work with you to ensure that your pet lives a long,
healthy, and happy life. It's the least we can do in return for all the
love that our pets give us.
If you have any questions about our senior care evaluation for your pet
for now or in the future---please call us anytime during normal
practice hours. We look forward to talking with you.
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