Senior Pet Care Recommendations

At Fairmount animal Hospital, a commitment to excellence in veterinary care has been

a long-standing tradition.

In keeping with that, we bring you the latest recommendations in senior pet care.

Dogs and cats age at a faster rate than humans. By the time your pets reach 7 years of age

they are heading into the geriatric phase of their lives.

As in human medicine, early detection is the key to successful management of many aging

ailments like heart disease, arthritis and cancer.

Because pets age so rapidly, more frequent health screening is recommended for senior pets

to aid in early disease detection and intervention.

Screening your pet's health begins with a comprehensive physical examination by a trained

veterinary medical doctor. Additional screening tools include blood tests, urine tests, X-ray, EKG,

ultrasound and blood pressure measurement.

At Fairmount Animal Hospital, we now recommend a comprehensive physical examination and

a general blood chemistry profile twice annually for all senior pets. Urinalysis, complete blood count

(CBC), and fecal examination is recommended once a year.

Recommendations for further screening with X-ray, EKG, ultrasound or blood pressure measurement

may be made based on results of the physical exam and baseline laboratory tests.

Your doctor will discuss your senior pet's individual results and customize a preventative program

appropriate for you and your pet.

Remember, early disease detection and intervention is the key to a long, healthy life for your pet,

and Fairmount Animal Hospital is committed to providing excellence in veterinary health care.

Please call our office if you would like further information regarding our new senior pet care

recommendations.