The Senior Wellness Program for Dogs at Willow Creek Animal Hospital

As veterinary care and commercial pet foods improve, our pets are living longer. Our goal for the Wellness Program is to work closely with you to help your pet live as long and as comfortably as possible. Early detection of disease or degenerative changes makes successful management of the problem more likely.

Senior is defined in part by the size of the dog. Small dogs tend to live out longer lives than larger dogs.

Senior life stage begin according to the following table:

Weight (lbs)	Age of Senior(years)
Less than 20	9
21-59	8
51-90	7
More than 90	6

Wellness screening in the older pet begins with the pet owner. You may notice subtle changes in your pet's activity, such as increase or decrease in appetite or thirst, personality changes, restlessness or stiffness. Such changes, or any obvious sign of illness (coughing, vomiting, diarrhea.), warrant prompt attention.

Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination. The exam is an important step for detecting such chronic conditions as dental disease, osteoarthritis, and heart disease.

For routine health screening of senior dogs, we recommend the following tests:

Chemistry profile - This is the first line testing for major organ function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar
Urinalysis - Bladder infections can occur without symptoms in dogs. A urine sample also helps us to evaluate kidney function and screen for diabetes
Complete blood count - Evidence of anemia, infection and inflammation are found here
Fecal - A stool sample is examined for parasites
Thyroid panel - Recommended for some cases, check with your vet

Senior dogs can benefit from early detection of problems. Nutritional supplements, adjustments in diet and exercise are most successful when conditions are treated early. Please talk to your veterinarian at your next visit.