Caring for Your Geriatric Pet

As pet owners, we do everything we can to make sure our pets live long and healthy lives. Our furry friends are members of our family and like other elderly relatives, they have special needs. Discussing these needs with a veterinarian is important to ensure your senior pet is provided with the care they need. At Sheehy Animal Hospital in Livonia, MI, our veterinarian is here to help you with any issues you may be experiencing with your senior pet.

Much as the life expectancy of humans has continued to increase, so has the life expectancy of our pets. Superior healthcare and nutrition are the major factors in this. Aging pets suffer from certain health issues than we have become adept at treating.

Conditions of Aging

As pets age, they can suffer from some of the same age-related illnesses and conditions as humans. These conditions include joint disease, heart disease, and senility.

Obesity

Weight issues are connected to other aging issues including decreased mobility and energy levels. Try to keep your dog as active as possible. If necessary, our veterinarian will recommend a diet to help to get your pet’s weight back under control.

Veterinary Care

Once your pet has reached the age where he or she requires geriatric pet care, we recommend bringing them in for their wellness exam every six months instead of just once per year.

Mental Health

You may notice some personality changes in your pet as they age. You may also notice they get easily confused or lost in their own home. They can also become anxious. Talk to our senior pet veterinarian about some of the things you can do to help your beloved pet age happily and comfortably.

Geriatric Pet Care in Livonia

At Sheehy Animal Hospital in Livonia, we understand how much your senior pets mean to you. We offer reliable senior pet care and will work with you to ease your concerns regarding your geriatric pet. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (248) 615-7670.