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Senior Dog Checks

Veterinary medicine is advancing rapidly, enabling quicker and more accurate diagnoses and treatments, especially benefiting elderly dogs. Owner vigilance is crucial in identifying problems early, and regular vet examinations and screenings can effectively control and treat diseases in senior dogs.
If you have any concerns or notice changes in your elderly pet, please contact us or make an appointment.

When is My Pet Dog a Senior?

  • Small Breeds: Over 8 years
  • Medium Breeds: Over 7 years
  • Large Breeds: Over 7 years
  • Giant Breeds: Over 5 years

Why is Owner Vigilance Important in the Senior Dog? Owners can help diagnose conditions early by noting and reporting subtle changes:

  1. Increased Thirst: Could indicate diabetes or kidney disease.
  2. Weight Loss: May result from digestive inefficiencies, dental issues, or muscle breakdown.
  3. Coughing: Could be a sign of heart disease in elderly dogs.
  4. Lumps and Bumps: Owners are usually the first to notice these.

What Will a Vet Look for in an Elderly Dog? Vets use owner observations and regular exams (often with blood screenings) to detect early disease signs:

  1. Teeth: Regular dental checks can extend the life of your dog’s teeth. Look for painful eating and bad breath.
  2. Heart: Obesity contributes to heart disease. Early signs include exercise intolerance and soft coughing.
  3. Liver and Kidney Disease: Watch for increased thirst, urination, and a bloated abdomen. Blood tests can indicate these issues.
  4. Lameness: Indicates arthritis, ligament injuries, or spinal problems. Anti-inflammatory agents and supplements can help.
  5. Reproductive System: Unneutered older females can develop pyometra. Males can suffer from testicular and prostatic issues.
  6. Senility (Circulatory System): Circulatory defects can affect blood supply to organs, such as the brain. Early intervention can benefit the older dog.
  7. Skin: Early examination of growths can lead to positive outcomes.