Senior Pet

White and Brown Dachshund With Black Framed Eyeglasses

Pets age approximately 7 years for every 1 of our own, however, the specific rate at which any pet ages is determined by many factors including breed, size, nutrition, and lifestyle. You can find your pets approximate human-equivalent age in the chart to the right.

Just like people, pets are living longer, more active, and healthier lives than ever before. Still, pets can develop various medical conditions as they continue to age.

The goal of senior pet care is to provide the best quality of life for as long as possible. In order to provide your pet with the best care, we recommend a semi-annual, comprehensive physical exam and blood screening to make sure those senior years are truly "golden."

Our recommended senior plan of care includes diagnostic tools such as:


Complete Blood Count (CBC)- Blood test to evaluate the number and type of red, white, and clotting cells. Abnormal values can be associated with bacterial or viral infection, anemias, clotting diseases, and certain types of cancers.

Chemistry Profile (Chem)-Blood test to evaluate the function of many internal organs. Abnormalities can indicate systemic disorders including diabetes, kidney or liver disease, and electrolyte abnormalities.

Urinalysis (U/A)-Urine samples provide valuable information about kidney function as well as screening for infections, tumors, or bladder stones.

Thyroid Level (T4)- Blood test to measure the amount of circulating thyroid hormone. Deficiency is common in dogs resulting in lethargy, weight gain, and dermatological problems. Increased levels are common in senior cats resulting in weight loss, increased appetite and thirst, and heart problems.

If necessary, an older pet may need more detailed care.

Dietary and exercise changes may be necessary as your pet ages, akin to an older person who can no longer run as long or eat the same food as they used to when they were younger. Talk to your veterinarian to determine what is best for your senior pet's specific needs. 

Radiographs/Ultrasound- Imaging studies allow visualization of many internal organs including the bladder, liver, spleen, kidney, pancreas and heart. These are especially useful in diagnosis of cardiac problems as well as abdominal growths and tumors



Image result for pet age chart idexx

Image result for pet age chart idexx