Senior Care

By now, you probably know everything about your pet, like their favourite food, hiding spots and places to play outside. This means you are more likely to notice shifts in their behaviour and appearance in their old age. Just like humans, they will be susceptible to diseases and physical changes that cause pain. Yet, with great age comes great responsibility and we are happy to guide you and your family through this beautiful transformation from rambunctious furry friend to wise furry guardian/protector/elder. For more information on the aging process and what to expect, call us at 403-982-8387.

What are some signs that my pet is getting old?

Aging is the time in their life when they will be developing new quirks and physical conditions. Those changes could look like the following:

• Less mobility due to arthritis
• Less energy
• Grey hairs peeking through (for dogs)
• Weight gain
• Confusion due to early signs of dementia
• Duller senses (sight, smell and taste)

Many of these issues can be treated. All they need are caring veterinarians, like us, to accommodate their needs and loving owners, like you, to help them adjust.

What can I do to help my pet as they transition to an older age?

When you bring your pet in for an examination, we can detect medical and physical problems through testing their bloodwork and discussions with you. From there, we can provide diet plans to give them the right nutrients, medications to treat any diseases and tips on how to make their lives easier at home. Regular communication and check-ups with our team is the best thing you can do to help your pet during their senior years.

How can I help my pet feel comfortable in their old age?

Keep in mind that their aging mind and body does not mean they can’t have an enjoyable life. Some approaches you can take to keep them healthy and happy include:

• Feed them their medications and nutritional food
• Get them to exercise, considering their limits; they need physical stimulation to stay healthy
• Let them socialize; they will benefit from friendly engagement
• If they have arthritis, get them softer bedding
• Keep brushing their teeth; declining oral hygiene could lead to diseases

Ultimately, the best support you can offer your pet is attention and patience. For more advice feel free to call us at 403-982-8387.