Veterinary Services Senior Pet Care in Westport, NY
Twice-yearly exams, screenings, and mobility care to help aging pets stay happy and healthy.
Supporting Your Pet’s Health through Their Golden Years
As pets age, their healthcare needs evolve — often more quickly than we expect. At Adirondack Veterinary Hospital, we specialize in compassionate, proactive senior pet care designed to help your pet live comfortably, healthfully, and happily well into their senior years.
Most dogs are considered seniors by age seven, and cats by age nine. Because pets age faster than humans, age-related conditions like arthritis, organ dysfunction, and cognitive decline can progress rapidly. That’s why routine geriatric pet exams are essential to detecting changes early and improving your pet’s quality of life.
What’s Included in a Senior Pet Exam
Our senior pet exams go beyond standard checkups. They’re comprehensive wellness visits tailored specifically to the unique needs of older pets. We recommend bringing your senior dog or cat in twice a year to monitor changes and catch signs of illness before they become serious.
During a typical geriatric wellness checkup, we may include:
- A complete physical examination
- Bloodwork (senior panel) to assess organ function
- Urinalysis for kidney and bladder health
- Chest X-rays to evaluate heart and lung health
- Dental evaluation for signs of periodontal disease
- Osteoarthritis and mobility assessment
- Behavior and cognitive health evaluation
- Review of changes in appetite, energy, or habits
These regular screenings allow us to track how your pet is aging and create personalized care plans that support their long-term comfort and wellness.
Why Senior Pet Care Matters
Aging pets are more vulnerable to chronic illnesses, pain, and mobility issues, but early detection and management can make a world of difference.
Here’s how proactive care can help:
- Blood tests help us detect kidney disease, liver dysfunction, diabetes, and thyroid conditions before symptoms appear.
- Dental disease, which is common in senior pets, can lead to infections and systemic health issues if left untreated.
- Arthritis and joint pain can significantly reduce your pet’s mobility and quality of life — but with the right treatment plan, they can stay active and happy.
- Behavioral changes such as confusion, house-soiling, or restlessness may signal cognitive dysfunction, which can often be managed with the right support.
Sharing even subtle changes with your vet helps us catch potential issues early and address them with compassion and care.
