Vaccination
Although senior pets may not get out as much, their aging immune systems may make them vulnerable to disease. We’ll review your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors to determine what vaccinations are necessary.
Senior blood work
Annual or semi-annual blood work can provide powerful insight into your pet’s organ health, especially their kidney and liver function. These organs play important roles in metabolizing any medications your pet may need, and are vulnerable to age-related disease.
Urinalysis
Urine testing can tell us more about your pet’s kidney health, and reveal problems, such as infection, inflammation, urinary stones, or cancer along the urinary tract.
Parasite prevention
Senior pets may be groomed less frequently or have poor self-grooming habits that make it easy for external parasites to hide. Maintaining monthly flea and tick preventives, as well as heartworm prevention, is essential for complete health and comfort.
Infectious disease screening
Dogs are screened annually for heartworm and tick-borne diseases. Although all pets are at risk for these diseases, older pets can be more severely affected, and should be tested regularly.
Fecal testing
Senior pets may develop cognitive issues and be less discriminating in their eating or elimination habits, making it possible for them to pick up intestinal parasites. Routine fecal testing allows us to screen for common intestinal parasites, and treat any infections that may develop.
Nutrition
Senior pets require specialized nutrition to suit their reduced metabolism and changing physiology. We can make tailored recommendations for healthy seniors as well as those with medical conditions requiring a prescription diet.
Dental care
Dental disease can complicate many other senior pet health issues. Our veterinarian will determine if your senior pet could benefit from a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia.