Hello all! This blog is dedicated to all the wiser (also known as older) patients here at Cordova Veterinary Hospital. I see a lot of patients come to the hospital for preventative care exams, some are older and some are younger. I had a lengthy discussion with some of the technicians and doctors as to the importance of regular visits to the veterinarian for our senior patients. Here are some of the points I would like to share with you:
Old age is not a disease! Older pets are more at risk to serious and progressive diseases, such as kidney, liver or heart disease. Senior pets should have twice yearly exams with the Veterinarian as well as blood work and urine samples that act as an internal exam for the patient. This way a problem can be caught early before it advances into a big problem with limited medical options.
Anesthesia can be safe for older pets! Since our hospital requires blood work prior to any anesthetic procedure, whether it be a routine dental cleaning or a mass removal, safer anesthetic protocols are made to accommodate our senior patients. (Although anesthesia can be risky for a pet of any age, we take every precaution necessary to help out our patients)
Don’t wait until the last minute! We dogs and cats age four to 10 years faster than our human counterparts, depending on breed and size. This means any disease can rapidly evolve that much faster if left unchecked.
Age related problems! Some specific diseases are age related. However many are overlooked because owners may feel that nothing can be done. Symptoms such as decreased activity, urinary or fecal accidents, bad breath and decreased appetite can be managed. If your senior pet(s) are exhibiting these difficulties, make an appointment today to have them addressed.
So there you have it! Just because pets are older doesn’t mean they don’t deserve anything but the best medical treatment…………. and loving treatment. Have a great week!!
*This blog was also helped by Healthy Pet magazine, Fall 201
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