Primary Care

Geriatric Medicine

Aging often happens so gradually it goes unnoticed by pet owners. Then, suddenly it is apparent their beloved companions are old. We recommend special veterinary and home care for geriatric pets to monitor and preserve their good health. We consider large breed dogs to be geriatric at age seven, and small breeds at nine years. Cats are seniors at age nine. Geriatrics may not be underfoot as much as younger pets, but they still require lots of love and attention.

The aging process affects every organ in the body. The best news about geriatric veterinary medicine is that there are many good products and treatments available to help with dementia, arthritis, heart failure, weight problems, mental health, and other problems prominent in the senior pet population.

Our veterinarians advocate a geriatric well visit at least once a year for both cats and dogs, and semiannual or quarterly (or more) visits for the oldest or infirm elderly pets. A geriatric well visit may include the following procedures:

  • Vaccinations
  • Exam
  • Blood work profile
  • Echocardiogram
  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Chest films or X-rays
  • Fecal
  • Blood pressure check
  • Urinalysis