Senior Pet Care
As pets get older, their risk of developing health problems increases. Senior pets require care that’s a bit different from the care needed by younger adult dogs or cats. At Garden Valley Veterinary Hospital, we work hard to help older pets maintain a good quality of life.
Pets are considered senior depending on their age, size, and species. In general, cats and smaller dogs are usually considered seniors when they reach seven years of age. Medium and large dogs are sometimes considered seniors when they are around six years old.
Senior pets are at risk of a number of health problems that can affect their quality of life. They might develop heart disease, kidney problems, diabetes, joint inflammation, or cancer as they get older. Senior pets might also become senile and grow physically weaker over time, which can cause challenges in caring for them at home. We can exam your golden oldie to check for health problems and treat them as needed. We can also offer advice on how to care for your senior pet at home.
Frequent exams are necessary for senior pets to pinpoint problems before they become more serious – and more expensive – issues. During these exams, we can run tests, such as blood tests or urine tests, to check for kidney disease, liver problems, and other health conditions. We will also weigh your pets and check for obesity, which can raise the risk of diabetes and other illnesses.
If you have a senior dog or cat in need of a wellness exam or other care, give us a call at 970-674-5105 to make an appointment today!