Age is Only a Number: Keeping Old Pets Healthy
Our pet population is living longer than ever before thanks to advances in modern medicine, dedicated veterinary health professionals like those at Jenison Animal Hospital, and loving pet owners like yourself. Senior pet care has a few extra challenges, but by working together, we can keep your older pet happier and healthier longer.
Senior Pet Care Obstacles
Older pets, just like older people, have different needs than their younger counterparts. Some unique challenges that many experience include:
- Decreased range of motion due to arthritis
- Back problems
- Joint and other pain
- Increased body weight
- Development of lumps and bumps
- Decreased vision and hearing
- Dental disease
- Changing nutritional needs
- Lowered immune function
- Cardiovascular disease
- Endocrine problems
- Cognitive problems
Wellness care, while important for any pet, becomes more important as they age. A senior pet’s condition is changing quickly, and routine examinations, screening tests, and discussions between you and our team are important to identify problems and special needs.
Tips for Keeping Old Pets Healthy
When we know more, we can do more. By identifying what your pet needs, we can provide them with the help they need. Some of our best tips for keeping older pets healthy include:
- Discuss diet: Nutritional need change with age, and your regular food might not meet them. Discuss your pet’s unique needs with us at their next visit so we can help you find the right food.
- Talk to us about nutraceuticals: Many quality supplements and nutraceuticals exist to aid in things like joint health, cognitive function, and immune support. Talk with us about which might be appropriate for your pet.
- Help your pet navigate their world: If your pet has decreased mobility, vision, or other challenges, make accommodations where you can. Provide stairs, non-slip surfaces or toe grips, or textural markers at the tops of stairs to help your pet get around in their world. Sometimes medications and other treatments may be helpful in minimizing the effects of these challenges for your pet.
- Encourage healthy activity: Continued physical and mental exercise is important for your pet as they age. Encourage outdoor activity and exploration that meets your pet’s abilities. Puzzle toys and games are also a great way to keep the mind sharper.
- Visit us often: Because things can change so quickly, it is important for your senior pet to have full check-ups often (twice a year is ideal). This way we can better notice minor changes, discuss concerns, and complete screening testing that is recommended for your pet. Schedule an appointment for your senior soon!
Senior pets often need some extra care, but with a little effort they can live long and fulfilled lives. We are happy to be your partner in providing the care and expertise to help make this happen.