Frontier Veterinary Hospital offers a Wellness Plan tailored to the special needs of our senior pets. Because dogs and cats age much faster than we do, it's important to modify their healthcare schedule to match their lifestage. Can you imagine treating a 9-year-old the same way you would someone who is 60? A Labrador Retriever nine years of age is the same as a 60 year old person. Our older pets can experience many of the same medical condition we experience as we age. Arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, neurological changes, thyroid problems, eye and ear problems and heart disease are all common and treatable conditions in aging companion pets. Early intervention and treatment can help your pet live a longer life. Our Senior Wellness Plan package includes diagnostic tests focused on the needs of our mature companions. Tests include complete bloodwork to evaluate kidney, liver and thyroid functions, diabetes and hypoglycemia, cholesterol, body proteins, triglycerides and electrolytes. Additionally, a CBC, urinalysis and a fecal (parasite) testing, as well as all of the core vaccinations, are performed. Four complete exams each year by one of our veterinarians, involving a head-to-paw health assesment, is an integral part of our Senior Wellness Plan. During each check-up you have an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your cat or dog, including changes you may have noticed in their activity level, eating or temperament. It is also an excellent time to discuss with the doctor appropriate preventative care steps you can take to help your pet live a healthy and happy life. If your pet shows any of the following signs, please make an appointment to see us right away: Lameness, pain, reluctance to walk or jump, stiffness. Enlarged pupils, hazy whitish spots in the lenses, rubbing eyes or pressing eyes against objects, having a tendency to bump into things. Loss of appetite, excessive thirst, frequent urination, listlessness, poor coat condition, nausea, vomiting or weight loss. Changes in sleep and activity patterns, interaction or personality, confusion, loss of bladder or bowel control. Bad breath, difficulty eating, excessive or abnormal drooling, red and swollen or bleeding gums, yellow or brown stains on teeth. Increased appetite. Coughing, decreased stamina, difficulty breathing, weakness or wheezing. Many symptoms that historically have been attributed to old age and considered untreatable are now treatable. For example, some dogs that appear to have lost their mental alertness can be returned to a mental status indicative of a younger age using appropriate therapy. Please feel free to contact us to discuss our senior wellness program or any concerning symptoms. |
