What’s Included in a Senior Pet Wellness Exam?
Our senior pet exams go beyond routine checkups to provide a comprehensive health assessment tailored to your aging pet’s needs. During these visits, we may include:
- Comprehensive physical exam to check for arthritis, lumps, dental disease, weight changes, and other signs of aging.
- Bloodwork and urinalysis to screen for underlying conditions like kidney disease, thyroid imbalances, diabetes, and anemia.
- Blood pressure monitoring to detect hypertension, which is common in senior pets.
- X-rays or ultrasound (if needed) to evaluate the heart, lungs, and joints for age-related changes.
- Nutritional and weight management guidance to adjust diet and supplements for optimal senior health.
- Pain management plans that include medication, supplements, and laser therapy to address arthritis and mobility issues to improve comfort.
- Cognitive health assessment to identify signs of cognitive dysfunction and provide supportive care.
We take the time to discuss any changes you’ve noticed in your pet, from behavior shifts to mobility concerns, so we can provide personalized recommendations for their care.
Supporting Your Senior Pet at Home
Small changes in your home and routine can make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and well-being:
Joint Support & Mobility Aids
Opt for firm orthopedic beds over soft bedding to provide aching joints the support they need as your pet rests and rises. If your senior pet struggles to navigate uneven surfaces or to rise after resting, use pet stairs, ramps, and supportive harnesses to help them stay steady on their paws.
Mental Stimulation
Although your pet’s body may be slowing down and they may be sleeping more, “brain games” are important for staving off cognitive dysfunction. Interactive toys, treat puzzles, and training sessions can help keep your pet’s mind sharp.
Dietary Adjustments
Senior pets can benefit from lower-calorie diets, specialized nutrition, or supplements to support joint and organ health. If your pet develops a chronic condition, a tailored nutrition plan often plays a key role in successfully managing the disease process.
Daily Exercise
Low-impact activities like short walks, gentle play, swimming, and rehabilitation techniques help maintain mobility without strain. Daily movement is important for keeping muscles, joints, and the cardiovascular system strong and healthy as your pet ages.
Regular Dental Care
Senior pets are more prone to gum disease, tooth-root abscesses, and other periodontal problems, so routine dental exams, professional teeth cleanings, and at-home care strategies are vital for warding off painful dental disease.