Senior Care

Older animals have special needs that may require changes to their diet, exercise schedule and living environment. Our team members will be happy to offer advice on how to accommodate your pet and make their living environment more accessible.

When does my pet become “old”?

Although it varies and many factors influence how your pet ages, cats are generally considered old starting at around age 10 or 11. For dogs, old age starts at 7 or 8 years. That stage will vary depending on your pet's age, breed and overall health. Your pet doesn't go from an adult to a senior overnight. You'll probably notice some changes in their habits.

What are the signs of aging?

There are many signs that your pet is getting older. Here are a few:

• Difficulty getting around
• Behavioural changes
• Less energy
• Change in appetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to make an appointment to come into the clinic as they can be early signs of a serious medical condition.

How can I help my pet age comfortably?

As your pet approaches the “typical” age for their species, we recommend that you keep an eye out for possible changes. It's a good idea to schedule an annual veterinary check-up to monitor your pet's health. You can also change their diet. There are many kinds of foods to meet the need of older pets. Be careful not to overtire your pet unnecessarily. Making their outings shorter, bringing their food bowl up from the basement so they don't have to go up and down stairs are the kinds of adjustments that may be needed to adapt to their new reality.