Senior Care for Pets

As your pet gets older, they will become vulnerable to infections, weight gain and mental disorders. Caring for your pet in their old age requires a change in lifestyle, patience and commitment. Your pet’s stamina and eating habits may change but, rest assured, we’re prepared to guide you through this next stage of their life. Call us at 403-527-4888 to learn how you can care for your pet during their golden years.

What kind of health issues can my pet develop in their old age?

As your pet gets older their immune system will weaken and their mind and body will be vulnerable to depletion. Here are some conditions they may develop:

• Vision issues, like cataracts, that can make it difficult for them to function independently and could lead to blindness
• Cancers
• Parasite infections
• Orthopedic problems, like arthritis, that make it difficult for them to walk or run
• Memory loss or confusion
• Organ failure, including their kidney and bladder
• Weight gain due to lack of stamina or aforementioned medical conditions that make it difficult for them to move

We can diagnose these conditions through physical exams and blood tests. We can also treat these issues with medication and physical rehabilitation. Call us to learn more about the services we offer or the places we can refer you to.

What specialized care do you offer to senior pets?

A common disease older pets deal with is cancer. While cancer is not strictly limited to older pets, the disease is a familiar condition developed in an animal’s senior stage of life. We offer in clinic chemotherapy; provided that this treatment is recommended by a specialist your pet has already visited. We will also offer chemotherapy if we are familiar with your pet’s specific cancer conditions. We do not have an oncologist on staff and we do not take risks. However, we can provide local care for your pet during this difficult time. Pets, unlike people, often tolerate chemotherapy quite well with minimal side effects. We will instruct you and your family on the ways to handle them while they recover from their sessions. Support comes both physically and emotionally. We are here to help you through your trying days ahead.