When Is Your Pet Considered a Senior?
Did you know that pets age much faster than people and are often considered “seniors” around age 7? Just as our health care needs change as we get older, your pet’s needs shift with age too. Nutrition, exercise, and daily routines may all need adjusting as your pet enters their golden years.
Spotting the Difference: Aging vs. Illness
It can be tricky to know what’s simply part of normal aging and what may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Many health issues in older pets begin with very subtle changes—sometimes going unnoticed until the condition becomes more serious. Regular senior wellness visits are key to catching problems early, so you can take action before your pet’s quality of life is affected.
The Importance of Senior Wellness Exams
Senior wellness appointments give us the opportunity to monitor your pet’s overall health, adjust treatment plans, and run important diagnostic tests such as routine bloodwork. These tests help us track how your pet is responding to current care, detect early changes, and make sure medications are still appropriate. Even if your pet already has a diagnosed condition, their needs may evolve over time—dosages may need to be adjusted or medications changed.
Advanced Therapies for Senior Comfort
Aging often comes with joint stiffness, arthritis, or chronic pain. Fortunately, veterinary medicine now offers safe, effective treatments to help your pet stay active and comfortable:
Laser Therapy: A gentle, non-invasive treatment that reduces pain, improves circulation, and supports faster healing. Many senior pets experience relief from arthritis and mobility issues with regular sessions.
Librela Injections: A breakthrough therapy for dogs with arthritis, Librela is a once-a-month injection that targets pain directly, providing long-lasting relief and helping pets move more comfortably without relying solely on traditional medications.
Partnering in Your Pet’s Golden Years
Older pets make loyal, loving companions, and with today’s advancements in veterinary care, they are living longer than ever. You play a vital role in your pet’s well-being, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Your questions are always welcome, and together, we’ll help your senior pet stay safe, happy, and comfortable throughout their golden years.