Senior Pet Care: How to Help Your Aging Pet Thrive
Just like people, pets experience physical and behavioral changes as they age. And just like people, they benefit from more frequent checkups and personalized care. At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we’re here to support senior pets through their golden years with compassionate, preventive, and pain-conscious veterinary care.
Typically, dogs and cats are considered seniors around age 7, though this may vary based on breed and size. As pets age, they become more vulnerable to conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, heart problems, cognitive decline, and certain cancers. The good news is that many of these issues can be managed effectively—especially when caught early.
We recommend bi-annual wellness exams for senior pets. These visits include a full physical assessment and often involve diagnostic testing, such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and blood pressure checks. These screenings help us detect hidden issues, monitor organ function, and create care plans that evolve with your pet’s needs.
One of the most common issues in older pets is mobility loss due to arthritis. You may notice your dog hesitating at stairs or your cat grooming less due to joint pain. We offer pain management plans that may include anti-inflammatories, supplements, laser therapy, or physical adjustments to your home to make life easier for your pet.
Senior pets may also develop changes in appetite, behavior, or litter box habits. These symptoms could point to anything from thyroid imbalances to cognitive dysfunction. Regular checkups help us differentiate between normal aging and treatable health problems.
Nutrition also plays a big role in senior health. Older pets may benefit from specially formulated diets to support kidney health, weight control, or joint mobility. We’ll help you choose the right food and feeding schedule to match your pet’s stage of life.
At Dominion Valley, we also understand the emotional side of aging. Watching a beloved pet slow down can be difficult, but with the right care, senior pets can remain comfortable, alert, and deeply bonded with their families.
If your pet is entering their senior years, now is the time to schedule a wellness visit. Call us at (703) 753-4444 or visit us at 5371 Merchants View SquareHaymarket, VA 20169 Together, we can give them the comfortable, fulfilling retirement they deserve.
