Is Your Pet a Senior Citizen?

As our pets mature, changes due to aging and/or disease progression can develop in a quick yet subtle manner. During this time dental and behavioral changes may also occur which can negatively affect the bond we have with our pets. Although our pets age more rapidly than humans they are afflicted with some of the same age-related problems. To give your pet the best possible care during this time we recommend a comprehensive physical exam and diagnostic evaluation to help detect early signs of health problems.During the wellness exam, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam, which includes evaluating your pet’s

• Weight /senior nutritional issues
• Skin for masses, parasites, or hair loss
• Musculoskeletal system to assess for arthritis
• Eyes for cataracts or infection
• Ears to look for mites or infection
• Teeth and gums and discuss dental care
• Heart and respiratory system
• Abdomen through palpation to evaluate the intestines, kidneys and liver

Physical exams can tell us a great deal about your pet’s health; however, compared to lab tests, exams don’t tell us how well the body is functioning. Tests with normal results not only give us a baseline to which we can compare future results but also to assure us your pet is healthy. Abnormal test results enable us to identify a problem, hopefully in its early stages, and take the appropriate steps to prevent or slow down the progression of the disease. The doctors at Pet Care Veterinary Hospital want to make certain that they are doing everything to ensure that you and your pet continue to have a long, happy and healthy relationship.

Wellness screening includes the following:

*CBC or Complete Blood Count – helps us to look for infection, cancer, anemia, dehydration, clotting problems, and blood parasites

*Chemistry Profile – helps us to look for kidney and liver problems, diabetes, and sometimes cancer

*Urinalysis can detect early kidney problems (before changes are seen in the blood), evidence of diabetes, infections, liver disease, and bladder stones.

*Thyroid level (T4) Measures the amount of circulating thyroid hormone. Increased levels are common in senior cats resulting in vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss despite a good appetite. Lower levels of thyroid hormone may be seen in dogs and result in lethargy, weight gain, and dermatological problems.

*Blood Pressure High blood pressure is especially common in older cats and dogs with kidney disease and cats with thyroid disease. High blood pressure can lead to heart problems, blindness, and further deterioration.

The Senior Wellness Program will provide your pet with a comprehensive evaluation to help detect early signs of disease. We want to provide your pet with the best care possible to help him live a long happy life with you as long as possible. Please contact Pet Care Veterinary Hospital at (757) 473-0111 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.