Senior Dog Wellness Exams: Why You Should Get Them for Your Canine Companion, What to Expect During Exams and How to Prepare for Them.
Our canine companions tend to live longer now, due to advancements in medical care. However, when they are seven years old, they are generally considered to be senior dogs. The life expectancy of your dog is correlated to the size and breed of your dog, however, in their elder years, it is highly advised that they undergo routine senior pets treatment in order for them to live longer and happier lives during their senior years. This article instructs senior dog owners how to prepare for these exams, what to expect during the initial exam and the routine exams, how frequently senior dogs should go to these exams, and what senior dog owners should do regularly in order to ensure their senior dogs are healthy and happy.
- It is generally advised (unless your vet recommends they go earlier) that your dog undergo their first thorough diagnostic senior wellness exam at the age of seven. Regardless of the size and breed of your dog, the seven year mark is generally when your dog is considered to be a senior, and therefore more prone to certain health issues associated with old age. What can you expect from the initial diagnostic exam? The vet will perform non-invasive diagnostic tests to determine if your dog has any health issues associated with old age. During this time, it is important to let your vet know if your dog has any previous health issues, and to air out your general concerns. This type of dialog is important between yourself and the vet, and the more insight you can give, the more accurate your vet’s diagnostics will be.
- Have a dialogue with your vet about the changes you will have to make in order to care for your senior dog. The vet may recommend a change in your dog’s diet and lifestyle and might tell you what symptoms to watch out for if they are relevant to your dog’s health. It is a good idea to monitor your dog’s health and behavior between exams, which will enhance a more open dialog with your vet about your senior dog’s wellness.
- How often should you schedule a senior wellness exam for your dog? While your dog is an adult, it is recommended they have a check-up annually. However, vets recommend senior dogs have a biannual check-up. You will need to schedule an exam with your vet every six months or so, to ensure your senior dog is living a happy and healthy life, and all health issues are quickly addressed should they arise.
- There are several points to keep in mind in order to prepare for these biannual check ups. It is a good idea to bring a stool sample during every appointment, so your vet can monitor your dog’s health, and check for parasites. You might want to observe and monitor your senior dog’s health and behavior between exams, and write down any concerns and irregularities you may notice. Discuss these with your vet and have a dialog about these concerns.
- It is important to keep an open dialogue between yourself and your vet about your senior dog, and to alert your vet about any irregularities you may notice. During their senior years, dogs need to be monitored, and it is your task to watch for their behavior and watch for any irregularities.
- To ensure your senior dog is leading a happy and healthy life, it is recommended they undergo an initial diagnostic senior wellness exam during their seventh year, and an exam is scheduled every six months for the rest of their lives. Be vigilant of any health and behavioral changes, and have a conversation with your vet about any concerns you may have. Your senior dog should live a healthy and happy life, and in turn, so will you.
Image Credit: minicooper93402
Author’s Bio:
Alex D’souza is a professional blogger known quite well for his love for animals. He writes blogs on his lifetime experiences with different animals.
