| In cooperation with Antech Diagnostics, we
have implemented a Senior@Seven Wellness ExamsTM program at
Sunnyvale Veterinary Clinic. The following information is from Antech
Diagnostics' Senior Health Program brochure. These brochures are also
available at the clinic. Like people,
dogs are living longer. We all cherish the companionship with our canine
friends. It is important that we help ensure these extended years are the
happiest and healthiest possible. Working with us, you can make a
significant difference in the life of your senior dog.
Senior Dogs Have Special Needs
|
COMPARATIVE AGE IN HUMAN YEARS |
As dogs move into the senior phase of life, they experience changes that
are very similar to aging humans. Diseases and conditions that are
commonly known to affect older people also affect our canine companions:
kidney, heart and liver disease, tumors, cancer, diabetes, depression,
arthritis, thyroid conditions, hormonal problems, neuroses and loss of sensory perception. Understanding these
changes and how you can provide for your pet's needs are essential to
quality of
life.
Age is never
just a number but rather a measure of the effect of aging to the body.
Variables such as genetics, nutrition and environment all contribute to
how your dog will be influenced by the aging process.
However, for practical purposes, your dog is considered to be "senior"
at 7 years old. Small dogs tend to have a longer life expectancy than
medium to large breeds. Since dogs age more rapidly than people (see age
chart), dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6
months. |
|
Dog's Age |
0-20 lbs. |
21-50 lbs |
51-90 lbs. |
>90 lbs |
|
5 years |
36 |
37 |
40 |
42 |
|
6 years |
40 |
42 |
45 |
49 |
|
7 years |
44 |
47 |
50 |
56 |
|
10 years |
56 |
60 |
66 |
78 |
|
12 years |
64 |
69 |
77 |
93 |
|
15 years |
76 |
83 |
93 |
115 |
|
20 years |
96 |
105 |
120 |
- |
|
Senior@Seven Wellness Exams Provide Hidden Answers
Studies have shown that as
many as 23% of senior dogs that appear healthy upon
physical examination have an underlying disease. Once symptoms appear,
the conditions may be too difficult or costly to treat. A Senior@Seven Wellness
Exam includes laboratory tests so sensitive they can detect diseases and
conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective. |
|
There
are a growing number of ways we can help "slow the clock" and promote
healthy, long lives for our senior dogs. |
|
Several non-invasive tests and procedures preformed regularly can help
us detect early-stage disease when control or even
prevention is possible and more cost effective. Senior@Seven Wellness
Exams also provide a baseline from which we can measure
changes. These tests include:
|
|
While an annual exam may be sufficient for younger dogs, we may want to
see your older dog at least every 6 months. For a dog, this can be
comparable to as many as 5
to 8 years in the life of a human. Special attention will be paid to
your dog's teeth and gums, skin and coat, heart, lungs, kidneys,
digestive system, and joints. Annual laboratory tests can detect the
onset of disease or abnormal health conditions.
A
proper diet and suitable environment are critical to your dog's
continued health and comfort. We will advise you on modifications for
your aging dog. This may include a special diet based on your dog's
specific needs, or an exercise regimen for your senior pet.
Conditions such as arthritis are very common disorders in older pets.
New medications are now available that are both safe and effective for
pain management, Cognitive
Dysfunction Syndrome and other age-related diseases.
Use
this
checklist to help you observe behaviors and symptoms that may
indicate potential health problems in your senior pet. If your dog is
experiencing one or more of these signs, please let us know.
The
goal of a Senior Wellness Exam is to maintain the highest quality of
life for the longest possible time. Together, we can make the senior
years the most rewarding you and your dog have ever shared.
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