Senior Pet Care

As your pet ages, he’ll probably require more specialized care to maintain good health. By partnering with an experienced veterinarian, you can have greater confidence that your pet will receive the quality care he needs. At Parkway Animal Hospital in Grand Prairie, TX, we have ample experience caring for senior pets. We’ll work with you to preserve the health and happiness of your senior furry friend.

Senior Status   

Pets vary in how they age depending on their breed and size. Small dogs, for example, aren’t really considered old until they reach 10 years of age. In contrast, large canine breeds are often labeled as seniors by the time they’re 6 years old.  Most veterinarians categorize dogs and cats as senior at 7 years of age and recommend they start receiving senior pet care.

Health Issues of Senior Pets

Senior pets are more susceptible to health issues than their younger counterparts. As your pet ages, he may develop problems with his joints, heart, liver, kidneys, and bones which will affect his temperament, mobility, and overall quality of life. Older dogs are prone to illnesses such as arthritis, cancer, periodontal disease, diabetes, kidney disease, dementia, and blindness. Older cats can suffer many of these same illnesses, along with heart disease.

By keeping up with your pet’s wellness exams, your veterinarian can catch signs of health issues early on so your pet can get immediate treatment. Many health conditions can be treated if caught early enough. Early detection will at least make it easier to manage your pet’s symptoms.

Senior Pet Care

As your canine or feline enters his senior years, he will benefit even more from routine wellness exams and diagnostics to detect health conditions. Identifying health problems early on is key to your pet receiving timely treatment that can extend his life. Depending on the health of your dog or cat, you may want to schedule biannual wellness exams as a preventative measure against sickness and disease.

Your senior pet’s nutritional needs will also vary as he grows older. Older pets may need prescription diets to help them cope with digestive issues or failing health. If your pet is gaining too much weight due to being less active, dietary changes can help reduce calories to make it easier for him to stay at a good weight level. By working closely with your Grand Prairie, TX, veterinarian in adjusting your pet’s diet and exercise regimen, you can help your pet enjoy better health in his senior years.   

See Your Grand Prairie Veterinarian for Senior Pet Care

To schedule a wellness exam for your senior pet, contact Parkway Animal Hospital in Grand Prairie, TX, at (972) 263-7277 today.