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Senior Pet Care/Issues

    Pets have a faster metabolism than people. Age related conditions begin much earlier in their lives than in ours.

    Some pets will live to be 15 or more years old, without having any significant health issues, but most pets will start developing changes much earlier. It can be difficult to determine when changes are occurring in our pets if the changes come on slowly. Pets are so forgiving of us. Unless they are in severe pain or distress, they may not bring their needs to our attention.

     Many pets are stoic, particularly when in their home environment.  There are so many conditions that hinder or disable a pet, and we may just think they are lazy or 'old'. Their changes in vitality can occur so slowly that we do not realize their physical shortcomings that are causing these changes. In fact, with some of the more exuberant breeds, we may actually look forward to the pets quieting, or demanding less of us for physical exercise. In fact, the pet may have a condition that is causing pain or lethargy that can be controlled, or the progress of the disease can be delayed.

    Skin diseases are common in dogs and some cats. If your pet smells or if you would not like to cuddle up and sleep with your pet, there may be a skin disease that we can help clear up, and control. Some skin conditions are caused by metabolic or endocrine disease.

    Diseases such as arthritis or intervertebral disc disease can creep up so slowly, that the pet just accepts it as best as possible. I mean, who are they to tell? We do not listen well to their needs. Or we misinterpret their communications. They may not even know we can help them. It is only when the pet is stimulated, or so happy with a chance to bounce around, that they over-exercise, and soon we discover the pain our pets may be in daily. Just like us, when there is something that we really want to do, our pain (or brains) may subside from the adrenaline surging through our bodies, so we ‘overdo’ it. We may hurt, or may not even be able to move the next day. This happens to dogs all the time (from my point of view).

    Cats may suffer from arthritis or back problems also. Does your cat not jump up onto higher surfaces any more? Do you really think that is because they are well trained? That may be the case, but, being a cat owner, I have to suspect that the truth is more likely in a physical reason.

    We can detect arthritis and skeletal pain from the information you give, our physical exam and x-rays. X-rays are commonly used to assess the exact sites of arthritis, its degree of severity or its staging, and assist us in determining the best course of treatment.

    Heart disease is common in both dogs and cats. Unfortunately, in cats, the disease may be completely silent until an emergency situation develops. Heart disease in dogs usually has early symptoms. A slight cough starts, particularly at night. The dog may not want to finish their usual walk or regular exercise. Signs may be so subtle and may appear as several other diseases appear. Eventually, the cough may worsen or the pet may even collapse. The pet may lose their appetite; have trouble sleeping at night and start living in a stressful state.

    Kidney and lower urinary tract infections may go undetected until significant damage has occurred. Urinary tract disorders are common in both dogs and cats. Many times, owners are unaware until the pet urinates in too many inappropriate places- then the owners finally seek assistance. The progression of kidney disease can be slowed given proper care. Many lower urinary problems can be completely corrected, or in the case of incontinence, controlled with medication.

    Kidney and lower urinary tract disease are detected with an exam, blood work and a urinalysis. X-rays are used to detect stones or tumors.

    Endocrine diseases are common in both cats and dogs. Endocrine disease involves glands that produce hormones. These are typically very slow starting diseases, but many times are not easily detectable on physical exam, until the disease is overt and significantly progressed. These diseases are typically treatable. However, the earlier they are detected, the less damage to the body that occurs. Each disease can affect multiple organ systems. Common endocrine diseases include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and hyperadrenalcortisism. These diseases are detected with information you tell us, examinations, blood and urine analysis.

    Dental disease is common in all pets, but seems to worsen with age, or neglect. Dental disease can provide a route for bacteria to enter into the blood stream, leading to heart disease, eye infections, sinus infections, kidney disease, anorexia, and many other problems. Dental care is available to pets of all ages. It is ultimately important to maintaining overall good health.

    Cancers are common in geriatric pets. Some we can surgically remove if discovered early enough, some we can treat. In other cases we can provide supportive care for the pet (and you) until humane euthanasia is the best option.
Many older dogs suffer from Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, which is similar to senility in humans. A lack of a neurotransmitter can be causing this. Treatment is available. Many people feel they have ‘got their dog back’ once treatment is started.

    Did you know we can help with many behavioral problems? Separation anxiety is common in dogs, but can be treated and controlled. If you wish to have us help you with behavior problems, please let our receptionist know when your next appointment is scheduled, to allow enough time to collect background information on the pet and other pertinent data as needed.

    All of the above diseases are detectable before an animal requires emergency care.   Please call us to schedule a Senior Pet Examination once your pet reaches seven years of age.