Additional Services

Golden Age Program

Seniors have special health care needs. Is your pet "over 40"? Growing older is a fact of life that we all must deal with. Most of us-especially if we're over 40-would like to grow older gracefully. Proper diet, vitamins, regular exercise and routine medical checkups are a basic part of our lives. But what about our pets? Did you know that dogs at 6 years of age are considered around 40 years old in human years? Geriatric medicine is as important to your pet as it is to you. To help ensure a long and healthy life, we recommend our senior health evaluation. Early detection and prevention are our main goals to give your pet the best quality senior living possible.

Senior pets can live longer and age gracefully. The physical examination is the corner stone of your pet's wellness. Diseases can be detected earlier if pets are seen more often. Because one year of your pet's life equals approximately 7-15 human years, illness can progress rapidly. Early detection is the key. For all these reasons, senior pets should have a complete examination at least twice a year. These examinations include screening and tests similar to those ordered by human physicians for older people. These tests may include, but are not limited to:

• Blood chemistry analysis-A group of blood tests are analyzed to provide the condition of the kidneys, liver, pancreas, and other major organs as well as other serious medical problems.
• Chest and abdominal Radiographs, for the screening of abnormalities such as heart enlargement, lung field abnormalities, liver and kidney size, abnormal fluids or masses, and certain skeletal problems such as arthritis.
• Urinalysis-with urine protein levels to detect early kidney problems and possible bacterial contaminants.
• ECG screening-A tracing of the hearts electrical function to pick up abnormal rhythms and other heart abnormalities.
• Blood Pressure Check-High blood pressure is a major contributor in heart problems, eye problems and the list goes on. Just as in human medicine this simple test can help aid in the early detection of diseases which may otherwise be much harder to treat once symptoms arise.

By sharing life and love with you, your pet has given you a priceless gift. As your pet's guardian, you have the opportunity to repay that loyalty and devotion. Now that your pet is over 40 there are numerous preventative measures we can take to insure that their later years are happy, healthy and lived to the fullest extent.