SENIOR DOG CARE IN WEST LINN, OR
Healthcare for Your Senior Companion
Do you have an older dog? When is a dog truly a senior citizen? Did you know that dogs mature more quickly than humans in the first couple of years, so the first year of a dog’s life is equal to approximately 15 human years?
Size and breed also influence the rate at which a dog ages. Although smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs, they may mature more quickly in the first few years of life. A large dog is considered “senior” at age five, but small and toy breeds do not become “senior” until around age ten. Medium-sized breeds fall somewhere in between.
With a focus on wellness and preventive care, all of us at Cascade Summit Animal Hospital in West Linn are here to help you and your senior dog through every life stage and to support you when your dog reaches his or her senior years. Knowing your dog’s general age can help you monitor them for early signs of problems. You can help us keep your dog healthy by keeping a close eye on your senior dog between exams.
Health Issues in Senior Dogs
Dogs age much more rapidly than people, and age-related diseases are common in senior pets. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to maintaining your dog’s long-term health and quality of life. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or routine, please call us to schedule a senior dog exam.
We recommend bi-annual (every 6 months) exams for senior dogs. Regular wellness exams allow us to discuss any age-related changes and provide timely care. Please contact us immediately if you notice any of the following signs in your dog:
- Sustained increase in water consumption or urination
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Decreased appetite or failure to eat for more than two days
- Lameness lasting more than five days or in more than one leg
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea lasting over three days
- Difficulty passing stool or urine
- Noticeable decrease in vision
- Persistent skin sores or scabs
- Foul mouth odor or drooling lasting more than two days
- Enlarged abdomen
- Lethargy or excessive sleeping
- Localized hair loss or excessive scratching
Our Senior Dog Wellness Exams
During your dog’s senior wellness exam, we will obtain a complete medical history and assess any changes in health or behavior since the last visit. We’ll perform a thorough physical exam, check for arthritis or muscle weakness, and conduct a visual dental examination. The exam includes internal/external parasite prevention and heartworm prevention.
We may also recommend additional diagnostic testing to evaluate organ function and detect early signs of disease:
- Blood pressure
- CBC (complete blood count)
- CHEM screen (liver and kidney function)
- Urinalysis
- T4 (thyroid function)
Additional tests may be recommended based on your dog’s condition and screening results. The frequency and type of testing are tailored to each individual pet.
Weight Management
Weight management and proper nutrition are especially important for senior dogs. The best food for your pet depends on age, breed, weight, and overall health.
Obesity is a common issue among older pets and can lead to heart, liver, kidney, and joint disease. During your dog’s wellness visit, we’ll discuss their ideal weight, diet, and exercise plan to keep them healthy and active.
Important Tips to Consider
- Schedule wellness blood screening early baseline results help detect health changes later.
- Check your dog regularly for lumps or bumps, and track any changes in a journal.
- Keep your senior dog active with gentle exercise and mental stimulation.
- Make small adjustments for comfort, soft bedding, ramps, or stairs for easier movement.
- Monitor behavior changes such as difficulty standing, altered sleep, or confusion.
- Remember that “slowing down” can indicate pain. Talk to us about pain management options.
- Maintain your dog’s ideal weight to reduce stress on joints and organs.
All of us at Cascade Summit Animal Hospital are here to help you and your dog through every life stage. Please contact us to schedule your dog’s senior wellness exam in West Linn or with any questions about your dog’s healthcare.