SENIOR PET CARE

Your pet begins entering his or her senior years around the age of seven. While it may not seem that long ago that your faithful companion was a frisky kitten or playful puppy, your senior pet requires a different health and wellness plan than was necessary in his or her younger days. The veterinarians and staff at Harborside Veterinary Hospital in Halesite, NY understand the medical needs of senior pets - that's why we've developed a comprehensive senior pet wellness program.

 

Preventive health care is critical for senior pets. Like humans, older pets are at an increased risk of developing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, endocrine disease, cancer and others. Because not all pets exhibit visible symptoms, these diseases can often go undetected. Early detection of these diseases results in faster treatment and better overall health for your pet.

 

During an exam at our Halesite veterinary hospital, we listen to your pet's heart and lungs to detect signs of heart murmurs, abnormal heart beat patterns, infection, tumors and other diseases. Your pet's vision and hearing is also evaluated. We check for any unusual lumps, swelling, skin condition and signs of arthritis and decreased muscle tone in joints and muscles. A full dental exam is also performed, as dental disease is one of the most common - and preventable - conditions in older pets.

 

Most of all, we encourage you to take an active role in the care of your senior pet. A decline in energy, a decrease in vision and hearing, weight gain, dental disease and skin conditions are all signs of old age. As these signs begin to appear, inform your veterinarian and keep track of any changes in your pet's behavior or overall health.