Geriatric
Exams Tailored for Your Senior Pet
The older pet needs special
attention. Because we know you want your pet to have a happy
life, and more years of togetherness, we offer special attention to
your "senior". Here's what we can do.....
KIDNEY AND LIVER
CHECK-UP: A gradual
decline in kidney function occurs to some degree in all old dogs
and is a frequent cause of decline in old cats. If a pet has
deteriorating kidney function, the diet is usually adjusted to
reduce the amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium. The
ability of the liver to effectively handle potentially toxic
material may be compromised in old age by the increased fat content
of liver tissue and relatively poor circulation. These organs
are easily evaluated by a complete medical examination, and blood
and urine tests.
CARDIOVASCULAR
CHECK-UP: The maximal
heart rate and maximal oxygen consumption during exercise decrease
with age. As with most other conditions, preventing obesity
and encouraging exercise are two common- sense but necessary
components of a program to prevent loss of cardiovascular
function. Heart function is evaluated by means of chest
x-rays, electrocardiograms, and ultrasound.
RESPIRATORY
CHECK-UP: Common
respiratory problems in the aged are obstructive lung disease,
chronic bronchitis, and increased susceptibility to respiratory
disease. The aging lung is characterized by reduced
efficiency in expelling air. A diet that restricts calories,
combined with mild exercise, can prevent unnecessary stress on the
lungs.
SENSORY CHECK-UP:
Failing eyesight and hearing are
common in the older dog and cat. Eyesight changes include
degeneration or a thinning of the retina, and cataract formation.
Either can reduce vision. A gradual decrease in tear
flow, and sagging eyelids, can lead to dry eyes with increased
irritation. Decreased hearing in the aging dog is
common. Usually the ability to hear lower-pitched sounds is
lost first. It is important to keep eyes clean, and to remove
accumulation of debris from the ear canal. Complete sensory evaluation is always available
at our hospital.
ORTHOPEDIC CHECK-UP:
There is loss of muscle mass and
joint flexibility in all pets as they age, leading to muscle
tremors and stiffness. Arthritis or spinal disc degeneration
may also lead to gait problems. Many stiff and painful pets
respond well to acupuncture, herbal, or other holisticp medications
and treatments.
SKIN AND HAIR
CHECK-UP: Some geriatric
diseases, such as thyroid, adrenal, kidney, and liver disease may
be manifested by dry harsh hair coats. Vitamin or fatty acid
supplementation may also improve the health of hair and
skin.
Call us at 847-891-8944 and a
member of our front desk staff will help you schedule a
geriatric exam for your senior pet. We now also offer cardiac and
abdominal ultrasound evaluations by internist and cardiac
specialist Dana Buoscio, DVM; she visits our clinic by
appointment.
