<< Back

THE GERIATRIC PATIENT

Growing older is a fact of life that we all must deal with. Most of us-especially those of us over 40 - myself included- 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 40 years old in human terms, and at 9 years their age is equivalent to a 52-year-old human? Statistically, we also know that large breed dogs live an average of nine to ten years, where small breeds live an average of 12 to 13 years.

Geriatric medicine is as important to your pet as it is to you. By the time your pet reaches 6 years old, the aging process is already beginning but may not be noticeable to you. To help ensure a long and healthy life, we recommend the following steps in caring for your geriatric pet.

1. Have your pet spayed or neutered at an early age. Fifty to 60 percent of unspayed dogs develop breast tumors by age 10. In addition, as they go through the "change of life," uterine infections can occur which are extremely life threatening. Therefore, older unspayed females must be checked regularly for breast tumors and unusual vaginal discharges. Uncastrated males can develop prostatic problems and anal and testicular tumors. Owners of breeding animals should strongly consider spaying or neutering those animals that have finished their reproductive careers.

2. Have routine medical checkups by your veterinarian.

3. Feed a geriatric diet especially formulated for the needs of an aging pet.

4. Keep those teeth free from tartar! Regular dental prophylaxis is a must! We now have available special toothpaste and brushes made just for our pets, that when used regularly, can help prevent tartar formation. One of the leading causes of kidney disease in the dog is infection spreading throughout the body from chronic periodontal disease!

5. Give proper care of the skin and coat with routine shampooing.

6. Complete geriatric health evaluation as your pet approaches 9 - 10 years of age. This evaluation should consist of the following:

a. Blood count
b. Thyroid hormone test
c. Blood test for liver and kidney function
d. Urinalysis with urine protein levels
e. EKG
f. Chest X-Ray

These tests are used, not only to evaluate the health status now, but also to compare the changes that are occurring year to year.

See your veterinarian today. He or she can help you set up a healthcare program for your geriatric pet. Early detection and prevention are the keys to longevity.