Geriatric Care & Planning
Advancements in nutrition, veterinary care, and education have increased our pet’s lifespan. This increased longevity means more and more animals are reaching older ages. As our cats and dogs reach their golden years, pet owners should consider a geriatric health program.
The aging process is natural and is not considered a disease. However, as your pet ages its body will go through several changes. Decreases in metabolism can cause weight gain, immune systems can become weakened and the healing process slows down. Problems with the endocrine system, organs, and cancer are seen with increased frequency as our pets age.
The first step in geriatric health care is owner education. Educating owners and early intervention can significantly improve the quality and longevity of our pet's lives. Medical care, nutrition, environment and behavioral routines are all within the owner’s control.
Our team will work with you to develop a geriatric health plan tailored to your animal and its breed. While some diseases and problems are unavoidable, early detection and intervention can help delay or even prevent some of the most common disorders related to aging. Proactively approaching aging with preventive medicine is not only cost effective, it’s satisfying. Knowing your pet is aging gracefully into its golden years, pain-free, is one of the kindest things you can do for him or her.
