Pets age faster than we do. A dog or cat is often considered senior around seven, and the changes can be easy to miss because our pets are good at hiding discomfort. Slowing down on walks, sleeping more, drinking more water, or a bit of stiffness getting up: these are worth paying attention to rather than writing off as “just getting older.”

Regular senior wellness care helps us catch problems early, when they’re easier and less expensive to manage. Kidney disease, arthritis, dental problems, thyroid changes, and diabetes are all common in older pets, and many respond well to treatment when we find them in time. That’s why we usually recommend more frequent checkups and routine bloodwork for senior pets, even when they seem healthy.

At Englehart Animal Hospital, a senior visit looks at the whole picture: weight and body condition, mobility and joint comfort, dental health, and any changes you’ve noticed at home. Bloodwork and urine testing give us a baseline and help us spot trends over time. From there, we can talk about pain management, diet adjustments, and small changes at home that keep your older dog or cat comfortable.

You know your pet better than anyone. If something seems off, or you just want peace of mind that your senior companion is doing well, we’re here to help.

Book a senior wellness exam at Englehart Animal Hospital today.