Senior Pet Wellness

Name: Valley Animal Hospital
Address: 1171 Valley Road, Clifton, NJ, 07013, US
Telephone: (973) 509-5225

posted: Apr. 02, 2020.

Veterinary Care for Aging Dogs

We want the best for our geriatric canine companions. It is important to receive regular wellness exams at any age, but it becomes even more important with an older dog. Our team of veterinarians at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton will work with you to come up with a plan for caring for your senior pet. Proper veterinary care can keep your canine companion full of energy and feeling great through their golden years.

What are Some Common Conditions Seen in Older Dogs?

Just as with humans, dogs endure more health problems as they get older. One of the most common problems is arthritis. This condition causes inflammation in the joints. This inflammation makes it painful to run, jump, or even stand up and walk. Pain management is an essential tool in treating arthritis. A geriatric canine needs to stay as active as possible, so pain management techniques such as pain medication or surgery should be used. Overweight pets are more likely to develop arthritis and suffer from joint inflammation.

Other common health problems include tooth decay and gum disease, diabetes, heart conditions, and problems controlling their bladders. Chat with one of our veterinarians if you suspect any of these issues. It is also important to keep an eye out for neurological disorders in an aging dog. Watch for changing behavior or loss of balance or coordination. Many owners mistake this as normal for a senior pet, but it often is not. Dementia and Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome are two common neurological disorders found in senior dogs. Once a neurological condition is diagnosed, our veterinarian can develop a treatment plan to improve your older dog's quality of life. Dog rehabilitation may be needed after a condition is found in a geriatric canine.