Extending Your Pet’s Life: Specialty Care for Aging Pets
Advancements in veterinary medicine are making it easier than ever to get our pets care that can even help them live longer. Aging pets have different needs than their younger counterparts in order to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Specialty care for aging pets can help you and your favorite senior pet enjoy even more time together.
Age Is Not an Illness
Many people equate an animal’s golden years with disease, but it is important to remember that age is not an illness. While there are certain age-related conditions you can expect to see, many senior pets simply need one extra wellness visit each year for optimal health for their age. Certain conditions require additional specialty care, however, which is where OVRS comes in.
Cardiology
Heart and respiratory illnesses significantly impact a pet’s life—and might even shorten it. Working with a board-certified cardiologist to address heart or lung issues will help your senior pets enjoy healthier, happier lives. Based on your pet’s specific diagnosis, the cardiology team will give you a detailed treatment plan to help them enjoy the most fulfilling life possible. Signs of potential cardiology issues include:
- Weakness
- Exercise intolerance
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Collapse
- Fainting spells
- Coughing
Regular and Integrative Oncology
Once upon a time, a cancer diagnosis was almost always fatal for pets—especially those in their senior years. New advancements in veterinary oncology mean that our pets can live happily with their people for far longer. With a team of board-certified oncology specialists and the latest in diagnostic equipment, we can create a unique profile of your senior pet’s illness and determine the best course of treatment. We offer both conventional (surgery, electrochemotherapy, and chemotherapy) and integrative medicine (incorporating diet, herbal, and acupuncture) treatment options so you can decide which is best for your pet and his or her quality of life. Our goal is to help you and your pet enjoy your lives together. With our top-notch oncology department, we can extend the lives of senior pets who have cancer.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic issues in senior pets can severely diminish their quality of life. They also inhibit physical activity, which can lead to other health issues (and an overall decline in health). You can find a solution with our orthopedic surgical options. After our expert surgical team works wonders on your senior pet, they should be able to return to the activities they love most. They can stay healthier longer once they can move easily and without pain.
Diagnostic Imaging
Regardless of the specialty veterinary care your senior pet needs, diagnostic imaging helps our doctors make the most informed decisions about their care. These images let us see what is truly going on inside your pet. Our diagnostic imaging includes:
- Digital radiography
- Echocardiography
- CT scan
Signs of an Underlying Issue
If an animal lives long enough, it becomes inevitable that they will have some health issues. Being observant and recognizing the signs of a change in health helps you get specialty care that can make a difference for your senior pet. Some of these signs include:
- Significant changes in behavior
- Swelling in or near the abdomen
- Trouble eating or drinking
- Changes in urination or defecation habits
- New lumps or bumps
- Increased anxiety
- Difficulty with mobility
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Limping or lameness
- Hiding more often
You know your pet best, so paying attention to changes like these can help you and your veterinarian spot any potential health issues early.
If your senior pet needs quality specialty care, Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here for you. We have more than 20 board-certified veterinary specialists who can assist with almost any health issue your pet might be facing. To learn more about our senior care for aging pets or our other services or to schedule an appointment, please call (248) 334-6877.
