Pets are living longer than ever before. With the discovery of new medications, diagnostic testing and treatments, we can keep our best friends comfortable and healthy much longer than in the past, and that is a wonderful thing!
When is a dog considered a senior pet?
We do see some variation in what age is considered senior depending on the breed of your pet. Generally speaking, we consider dogs over the age of seven a senior. However, small breeds live longer than large breeds, so a Great Dane would be considered a senior pet at a younger age than a Chihuahua.
What are the most common health issues experienced by senior dogs?
Since dogs age faster than people, 1-year between check-ups for a senior dog can be a very long time in dog time! Many of the experts do recommend having your senior dog examined every six months in order to find changes sooner. Definitely bring your dog in for an examination if you see any new lumps and bumps, notice a change in appetite or water consumption and any unexplained weight loss. With the diagnostic tests, we have available, particularly blood testing, we can find out about your dog’s major organ health early, often before a problem develops.
This gives us more options for treatment and helping your pet live a longer life.
