Senior Pet Care

Special Care for Senior Pets

Best Friends Animal Health Center knows how important your pet companion becomes to you over the years. An important part of providing the appropriate care at the right time is to understand the stage of life your pet is experiencing. Just as no two pets are alike, “senior” status varies according to breed and your pet’s life experiences.  We consider most pets to be seniors around 7 years of age.  

We want you to understand your aging pet. For example, weight gain is a major contributing factor to many age-related joint problems and arthritis. Exercise and diet become even more important as your pet grows older. We take the time with you to make sure you have the information you need to take preventative steps to help keep your pet healthy.

As your pet ages, we recommend regular blood screening for:

• Arthritis treatment
• Kidney and liver function
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Thyroid problems
• Hypertension

End of Life

Like any other stage, the end of your pet’s life is a very important time. We will spend as much time as you need talking about your pet’s quality of life and the decisions that must be made. Our doctors and staff will do everything to keep your pet comfortable and you may choose to be with him or her if you decide on humane euthanasia.

Even though this can be a difficult time, our staff will help you celebrate the life of your pet. We will make sure there is plenty of time to talk with us.