Good health is essential for a happy, long life and, as our pets age, "Senior Wellness Programs" become more important in maintaining their health.
As our pets reach their later years of life, they become increasingly vulnerable to many illnesses.
Also, many pets will mask their symptoms, until they are too uncomfortable or sick to hide them anymore.
A lot of times, this is when we, as pet owners, notice something wrong. Unfortunately, oftentimes the disease may be too far advanced to cure or treat.
Preventative medicine, however, is a great way to stay ahead of the diseases, and allows our pets to live longer and longer.
For our senior pets, health problems related to advancing years are similar to our own, and they include:
-- Heart disease Early disease detection and treatment can help extend and improve the quality of your pet’s life, and typical senior wellness programs include tests such as a complete physical exam, white and red blood cell analysis, blood chemistry profiles (evaluating major organs like liver, kidney, pancreas, and thyroid hormone), urine analysis, radiographs of the chest and abdomen, fecal and heartworm testing, and blood pressure measurements. Some steps you can take at home in helping to maintain your pet’s health status include making sure your pet has a predictable routine (i.e., feeding times, walks, etc.), always providing access to fresh water and litter boxes, feeding a high-quality, age-appropriate food, and providing a safe and serene resting and sleeping place. By sharing life and love with you, your pet has given you a precious gift. Now that your pet may be a senior, you can give your pet something in return – the special care that makes the golden years happy and healthy.
-- Liver disease
-- Kidney disease
-- Dental problems
-- Digestive disorders
-- Diabetes
-- Cancer
You may be concerned about the stress of blood testing and radiographs but, with all the modern advances available today, your pet’s procedures can be done safely, comfortably, and quickly.