One day your dog is a puppy chewing up your shoes, and seemingly overnight, they are slowing down on walks and sleeping a little more. Aging happens to all of us, pets included, and knowing what to expect can make those golden years a lot more comfortable for everyone.
At Paw Haven, we are here for pet owners at every stage of their pet’s life, including the ones that come with some harder questions. Here is what to expect as your pet ages and how to help them through it:
Every Pet Ages Differently
There is no single age where a pet officially becomes “senior citizen.” It depends a lot on breed, size, and genetics. A large breed dog like a Great Dane might show signs of aging earlier than a small breed like a Chihuahua, and individual pets can vary even within the same breed. This is part of why we like seeing pets regularly at Paw Haven. Our team of vets gets the chance to know your pet’s baseline, which then makes it easier to notice the early, subtle signs that things may be starting to change.
What Kind of Changes?
As pets get older, you might notice less energy, some hearing loss, or cloudiness in their eyes from cataracts. Internally, organs do not work quite as efficiently as they used to, which raises the risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, or something more complex like Cushing’s Disease. You may also notice them slowing down on walks or during games of fetch or trouble jumping up onto furniture. These can all be signs of pain or arthritis. While genetics play a role in your pet’s aging process, lifestyle does too, which means there is a lot within your control.
Diet and Exercise Still Matter
Senior pets often do best on a diet formulated for their life stage, since it helps prevent the weight gain that comes more easily as metabolism slows down. If your pet has a health condition like kidney disease or diabetes, a prescription diet might be the better fit, and that is a conversation worth having at their next visit. Specialized diets are also especially important in aging cats with risk factors of kidney disease or urinary issues.
As for exercise, think shorter walks, gentler play, and more patience as your pet slows down. Dr. Glass, who is certified in veterinary acupuncture, often works with senior pets dealing with joint discomfort or mobility issues, which can make staying active a lot more manageable and comfortable.
Why Twice-a-Year Visits Help
Once your pet reaches their senior years, we typically recommend check-ups every six months instead of the usual annual visit. Their immune system is not quite what it used to be, and health issues tend to develop more quickly at this stage. More frequent visits mean we can catch and address problems related to aging earlier, while also keeping vaccines and parasite prevention on track.
Helping Them Enjoy Their Golden Years
A few small adjustments at home can make a big difference in the long run. Ramps or steps for getting onto the couch or bed, non-slip rugs on slick floors, and a cozy, easily accessible bed can all help an aging pet move through their day more comfortably.
Aging does not have to mean a decline in quality of life. With the right support, senior pets can stay happy, comfortable, and very much themselves for years to come. If your pet is entering their senior years, we would love to help you build a plan that fits them. New patients can take advantage of our $25 exam offer (normally $68) at our Lakeland clinic to get started.
Book online at pawhavenvet.com or call us at (863) 334-0158.
