Your pet has certain needs.

There is so much to know about caring for your pet. To help you, below we have provided some useful information on select topics for the care of your pet. For more information, contact us to find out how we can help make sure your pet stays happy and healthy.
 

• Heartworm DiseaseHeartworm Disease >>
• Overweight PetsOverweight Pets >>
• Wellness ExamsWellness Exams >>
• Intestinal ParasitesIntestinal Parasites >>
• Feline Immune Deficiency VirusesFeline Immune Deficiency Viruses >>
• Ear InfectionsEar Infections >>
• DiabetesDiabetes >>
• Why is dental care importantWhy is dental care important >>
• Aging Pets
• Kidney FailureKidney Failure >>
• Laboratory TestingLaboratory Testing >>
• Bartonella "The Cat Scratch Disease Bacteria"Bartonella "The Cat Scratch Disease Bacteria" >>

 

Aging Pets How often have you heard about dog or cat years, typically viewing a pet year as seven people years? The reality is that dogs and cats age differently, based often on their breed and their weight. Aging pets require special care. Your veterinary will help you develop a complete health maintenance program for your older pet. Senior years for pets can be determined by the size and weight of the dog. Pet Type Weight Senior Years Cats Most Breeds 10-14 years Small dogs Less than 20 pounds 10-13 years Medium dogs 21-50 pounds 8-12 years Large dogs 51-90 pounds 7-10 years Giant dogs More than 90 pounds 7-10 years Help your pet maintain his correct weight. Dogs may need fewer calories as they get older, and may need a diet lower in fat and higher in fiber. Cats don't have the same weight gain and loss patterns as dogs. Their energy requirements stay about the same, but may become thinner as they get older. Regular exercise is very important to maintain bone strength, muscle tone and stamina. Daily walks and playtime is important for your pet. When your pet starts to slow down, you should shorten walks or try alternative activities like swimming. We can help you determine appropriate levels of activity. Dental care if very important at this stage as well. Eighty percent of older dogs and seventy percent of cats have gum disease. Other changes that may occur include: Hearing and vision loss Brittle nails Weight gain or loss Dental disease Loss of hair, dull coat, graying hair Arthritis Constipation in cats Sensitivity to temperature changes Tumors Coughing Increased water consumption and urination Vomiting Diarrhea Breast cancer in un-spayed females Behavioral changes Prostate disease Cataracts in dogs Confusion and disorientation in dogs Talk to us to discuss a complete geriatric health program to preserve the life and quality of life of your older pet.