Senior Dogs have special needs

As dog’s 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, cancer, diabetes and other hormonal conditions, arthritis, neurologic diseases, and a variety of metabolic conditions. In addition, dogs’ nutritional requirements can change as they age due to a change in their metabolic rates and nutrient need.

Comparative Ages of Dogs and Humans
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
19 Years	96	105	120

Your dog is considered to be a “senior” at 7 years of age, although small dogs do tend to have a longer life expectancy than medium and large breed dogs. Since dogs age more rapidly than people (see age chart), dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6 months.

Studies have shown that as many as 23% of senior dogs that appear healthy upon physical examination have underlying disease. Once signs appear, the conditions may be more difficult or costly to diagnose or treat.

Irvine Veterinary Services has developed a healthcare program specifically for our senior patients. Our goal is to maximize the length and quality of your pet’s life through nutritional counseling, careful evaluation of body systems, and detection of diseases and conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective.

Our Senior Wellness Package includes the following:
Complete Physical Exam	Routine check of ears, eyes, skin, heart and lungs, abdomen, etc.
Full Dental Exam	Detects disease of the teeth and gums
Senior Blood Profile	Checks organ function, red and white blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, screens for hormonal disease
Urinalysis	Checks kidney function and screens for urinary tract disease
Ultrasound of the Urinary Bladder	Detects the presence of bladder disease, tumors, and stones
Radiographic Study of Abdomen and Chest	Checks the appearance of heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. Screens for arthritis and other skeletal diseases. The package includes a CD of your pet’s radiographs for you to keep
Diet Counseling	Analysis of metabolic and nutrient requirement specific to your dog
Bath, Nail Trim, Ear Clean, Anals	Ensures your dog is clean on the outside as well!

We recommend that these tests and counseling sessions take place at least once a year to ensure optimal healthcare and the best quality of life possible for your beloved pet.

IVS is dedicated to promoting a long and happy life for both you and your pet! Give us a call to set up an appointment for our Senior Wellness Package at either of our Irvine locations. For further information on senior wellness and care, visit the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) website, www.aaha.net.