Valley Animal Hospital

In most cases, a dog is considered a senior dog by the time he’s five and ten years of age, but senior status can vary according to the dog's breed, size, and overall health condition. Working with a vet for aging dogs at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton is an important thing to do to make sure your older dog lives his golden years as happy as possible.

Reasons to Visit the Vet for Aging Dogs

A dog who is considered a senior can be more prone to the development of illness and disease as he gets older. Your older pooch may be facing natural issues that come along with aging as well, such as changes to his hearing and vision. Some of the most common reasons to visit the vet for senior dog care include:

• Joint problems, such as pain or arthritis
• Incontinence or some type of gastrointestinal issues
• Gum disease or problems with teeth
• Signs of illness or disease, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes

In addition, older dogs can also have problems with obesity, especially if they are not as active as they once were. Older dogs who are overweight are more at risk for other health conditions as well.

How Veterinarian Care Differs for a Senior Dog

Senior dog care at the veterinarian is a little more in-depth and a little more cautious. Since an older dog can be more at risk for certain canine conditions, the vet will take more care during well pet exams and any time you have to come in because something is wrong. You may see a few more types of testing performed, greater care when picking medications or illness prevention methods, and a little more time spent during appointments.

Let Us Help You with Senior Dog Care in Clifton

Your senior dog has probably been by your side for a long time, and they deserve the best of care as they get older. If you have a senior dog who needs specialized attention, contact us at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, NJ, for an appointment.