Adult and Senior Wellness

Our hospital offers and encourages Preventive Medicine Services through the use of special "Early Disease Detection/Wellness" programs for adult and senior dogs. Because pets are living longer, they are experiencing increased problems with chronic illnesses and cancer. The earlier a problem is diagnosed and a treatment plan started, the better the outcome. These programs recommend twice yearly exams by a veterinarian in order to detect any changes or illness in pets as they age. These exams are the key to detecting health problems that could endanger your pet. In addition to a physical examination, other diagnostic tests (laboratory work, urinalysis, fecal exam, x-rays, etc) are often recommended if a problem is detected.

You can be your pet’s best advocate when it comes to their health. Keep a watchful eye for anything unusual or out of character for your pet.

Some warning signs to watch out for include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Excessive drinking or urination
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Behavioral changes
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Skin lumps, growths or irritation
• Bad breath, plaque on teeth or bleeding gums
• Ear odors, ear redness, or scratching at the ears
• Lameness or sensitivity