Advancements in veterinary medicine have enabled pets to enjoy longer, healthier lives. At Middlehope Veterinary Hospital, we focus on providing specialized care for senior pets to help them age gracefully and comfortably.
Comprehensive Senior Wellness Program: Once your pet reaches seven years of age, we recommend biannual comprehensive physical examinations and senior workups to detect and address age-related health issues promptly.
Our program includes:
- Physical Examination: Thorough assessment to identify signs of disease, illness, or age-related concerns.
- Senior Wellness Blood Screen: Evaluates blood cells, platelets, organ function, and thyroid hormone levels.
- Urinalysis and Fecal Examination: Checks for urinary tract and digestive abnormalities.
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure to test for glaucoma.
- Vaccination Recommendations: Personalized based on your pet’s lifestyle and health status.
- Tick-Borne Disease and Heartworm Testing: Essential screenings for dogs to detect these conditions early.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Monitors heart health, especially in breeds prone to cardiac issues.
Recognizing that different breeds are predisposed to specific diseases, our senior wellness program includes testing tailored to your pet’s breed when necessary.
Nutritional Counseling: Diet plays a crucial role in your senior pet’s health. Our veterinarians can recommend special diets to maintain optimal organ function and manage or prevent obesity, ensuring your pet remains active and comfortable.
Monitoring and Early Detection: Paying attention to subtle changes in your senior pet’s behavior or physical condition can be vital. Watch for signs such as:
- Discomfort or Pain: Slow movements, difficulty eating, or vocalizing when touched.
- Increased Thirst or Urination: Potential indicators of underlying health issues.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control or inappropriate elimination.
- Digestive Changes: Altered bowel movements or frequent digestive upsets.
- Appetite Changes: Eating more or less than usual.
- Skin and Coat Issues: Dry, itchy skin, sores, lumps, or hair loss.
- Oral Health Problems: Bad breath, drooling, or difficulty chewing.
- Eye Issues: Redness, cloudiness, or discharge.
- Respiratory Changes: Coughing, excessive panting, or labored breathing.
- Behavioral Shifts: Lethargy, disorientation, or decreased interest in favorite activities.
If you observe any of these symptoms, contact us promptly to schedule an evaluation. Our dedicated team is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to support your senior pet’s health and quality of life.