Just as we require more attention as we age, so do our animals. In fact, animals age more rapidly than we do. For example, an average-sized, 7-year-old dog would be considered a senior by your veterinarian. When that same dog reaches the age of 10, they’re now classified as geriatric. Providing regular, preventative veterinary visits can ensure your pet stays at your side as long as possible.
At a minimum, our team recommends twice-yearly exams for every pet – but especially for older pets. This allows your veterinarian to become familiar with your animal, enabling them to pick up small changes more easily as well as accurately monitor more chronic issues for progression. Depending on your animal’s condition, your veterinarian may recommend more or less frequent visits.
In addition to preventative exams, our care team recommends regular bloodwork to screen for potential problems and monitor any chronic issues your animal may be dealing with. Avenues Pet Clinic now offers young, adult and senior-specific wellness screenings at an overwhelming value. These screenings take blood, urine and fecal samples from your animal to provide the most well-rounded view of your pet’s health and give our veterinarians insight into how best to support your companion long term.
Dental health is very important to the longevity of your pet. Caring for your animal’s dental health can range from a simple exam to regular brushing to a complete dental procedure. Regular, preventative exams can ensure the right recommendations for your pet and might help save you money in the long run.
Your veterinarian may also recommend survey radiographs of the chest and/or abdomen as well depending on your pet’s history and their physical exam findings. While radiographs are most often used as a diagnostic tool, they can also be used to create a baseline for your veterinarian to monitor changes throughout your pet’s aging process.
The value of regular, preventative exams cannot be overstated. These exams allow your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s overall wellness, as well as pick up on small changes that might lead to more concerning problems. Veterinarians depend on a detailed history in order to treat and provide accurate recommendations for your animal’s care. This becomes vitally important as your pet ages; when things like arthritis, pain management, cancer, and metabolic concerns come into play. By becoming an established patient early on, you can foster that relationship with your veterinarian and ensure the best care possible for your aging pet later on.
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