Understanding Senior Pet Care
As pets age, their needs evolve. While it’s difficult to watch our beloved companions grow older, it’s important to recognize that most dogs are considered seniors by the age of 7, and cats around 7 as well. Unlike humans, pets age much more quickly, which means illnesses and diseases can progress faster. Taking proactive steps in caring for senior pets can help ensure they enjoy their golden years in comfort and good health.
At Mill Creek Animal Clinic, we recommend bringing your senior pet in for a wellness check-up twice a year. Regular exams and screenings allow us to track your pet’s health, catch any potential issues early, and provide timely interventions to improve their quality of life.
Why Senior Pet Exams Are Important
As pets age, diseases may develop without showing obvious symptoms. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the overall health of your senior pet. During these exams, we typically perform:
Blood Tests (Senior Panel)
One of the most important aspects of senior pet care is monitoring organ function. A senior panel blood test checks the health of your pet’s liver, kidneys, pancreas, and thyroid, as well as red and white blood cell counts. This can help detect early signs of disease and ensure that your pet’s internal organs are functioning well.
Chest X-Rays
A chest x-ray can be used to examine the heart and lungs, ensuring there are no masses or signs of cardiovascular issues that can become more common as pets age.
Dental Exams
Periodontal disease is a common issue for older pets and can cause pain and discomfort. A thorough dental exam helps identify any issues that may need attention to prevent further oral health problems.
Advanced Diagnostics for Senior Pets
To give our senior patients the best care possible, Mill Creek Animal Clinic offers fast scan ultrasounds. These non-invasive scans provide detailed insights into your pet’s health and can help detect issues that may not be visible during a routine exam. Fast scans can identify:
- Early Cancer: Detecting tumors early can improve treatment outcomes and give your pet the best chance at successful treatment.
- Cardiovascular Abnormalities: Initial heart screenings can identify potential heart issues, allowing for further diagnostic testing like an echocardiogram.
- Organ Abnormalities: Fast scans help detect abnormalities in organs that may go unnoticed in standard exams.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: These ultrasounds help identify any digestive issues or abnormalities that might be affecting your pet.
Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection of health issues is crucial to providing effective treatment. By identifying problems early, we can create tailored treatment plans to address the specific needs of your pet. Fast scan ultrasounds are an excellent way to stay proactive in managing your pet’s health and can provide peace of mind for pet owners, knowing that you’re catching potential issues before they become serious.
Behavioral Changes in Senior Pets
In addition to physical health concerns, it’s important to monitor your senior pet’s behavior. Cognitive dysfunction is a common condition in older pets, which may lead to symptoms such as:
- Losing housebreaking skills
- Getting lost or wandering aimlessly
- Increased confusion or disorientation
If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior, make sure to bring them in for an exam. Our team at Mill Creek Animal Cliniccan help determine if cognitive dysfunction is affecting your pet and offer strategies for managing it.
Book Your Senior Pet’s Wellness Exam
Ensuring that your senior pet receives the care they need is essential for maintaining their health and happiness. At Mill Creek Animal Clinic, we’re committed to providing top-quality care for pets of all ages. If you haven’t yet scheduled your senior pet’s wellness check-up, now is the perfect time to start.
To schedule an appointment, contact Mill Creek Animal Clinic at (708) 361-6002 or Make An Appointment online.
Explore Our Complete List of Veterinary Services in Palos Park, IL
- Cancer Treatment (Oncology)
- Skin Care & Dermatology
- Regenerative Therapy
- Parasite Screening & Prevention
- Pain Management & Relief
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Nutritional Counseling
- Gastropexy
- Cardiology
- Behavioral Counseling
- Allergy Testing & Treatment
- Advanced Diagnostics & Imaging
- Spaying & Neutering
- Vaccinations & Immunizations
- Comprehensive Wellness Exams
- Eye Care (Ophthalmology)
- Echocardiogram
- Dental Exams & Cleanings
- X-rays & Radiology
- Microchipping
- Ultrasound
What's Next
Call us or schedule an appointment online.
Meet with a doctor for an initial exam.
Put a plan together for your pet.
