As we get older, what are the first things our doctors recommend to help maintain our health?  You're right!! Regular comprehensive physical exams and lab work.  As your pet gets older, the same applies to them.  The average dog or cat enters the geriatric years between 6 and 10 years of age.

Aging pets are prone to many of the same ailments older humans experience such as diabetes, renal disease, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, depression, hearing loss, decreased vision, and difficulty getting around.  You may also notice weight gain or loss, bad breath, a change in eating habits and water consumption, shaking or shivering, disorientation, decreased activity, inappropriate urination, and decreased interest in you or their environment.  However, even if your pet isn't behaving differently, age brings changes in the functioning of his/her internal organs. 

Clinical signs often do not develop until late in the disease process.  Just as in human medicine, many diseases can be uncovered early in their development by routine blood screening of pets that 'appear' normal.

At what age is my pet considered a "Senior"?

The aging process varies with breed and lifestyle:
 - Small dogs (< 20 lbs): 7 - 13 yrs
 - Medium dogs (21-50 lbs): 7 - 11 yrs
 - Large dogs (51-90 lbs): 6 - 9 yrs
 - Giant dogs (over 90 lbs): 5 - 9 yrs
 - Cats (most breeds): 8 - 10 yrs

Age proofing Checklist:

	Keep to a daily routine. Older (and younger) dogs and cats find comfort in knowing what to expect.
	Brush your dog's teeth daily or use the many dental products available for both dogs and cats.
	Don't move too quickly into your dog's space or make sudden movements that might startle your pet.
	If necessary, give your dog more frequent bathroom breaks. Check the litter daily for cats and keep it fresh.
	If your pet has arthritis, make sure it has a warm place to sleep, and avoid activities that stress those old joints.
	If your older dog is in good overall health, get involved (together) in moderate exercise.
	Match your dog's caloric intake with its level of activity.
	Frequently bathe and groom your dog. As pets age, their skin glands produce less oil, which  increases the chance of dry, flaky skin and matted hair.

Take your pet in for semi annual veterinary checkups,
or more often if it has an ongoing medical condition!