The most  common abnormalities detected on history and physical examination in both dogs and cats include: *Dental disease, lumps, vomiting, polyuria/polydipsia ( excessive passing of urine/excessive thirst)

            The most common laboratory abnormalities detected  include:                                                *Elevated liver enzymes, Elevated kidney enzyme and inappropriate urine specific gravity.

Note: additionally, in cats, diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism were detected.

 Many of the above conditions are easily managed with medication and/or diet change, as long as we have early detection. Most pets will not have any visible signs of liver or kidney disease, until they have already lost 75% of organ function. That is why yearly testing is key. If the disease is diagnosed in its early stages, your companion could live to their full life expectancy.

 Together we can help your pet. You know your pet better than anyone else and can alert us to changes in your pet’s behavior. Look for these signs and let us know if they become apparent.

 - Just not him/herself              - Interacting less with family       - Seeming disoriented                 - Changing eating patterns - Drinking or urinating more often - Noticeable weight gain or loss - Having difficulty climbing stairs - New lumps or bumps- Increased Stiffness or limping   - Showing Tremors or shaking - Having Bad breath/swollen gums

 Many of the above are symptoms of treatable conditions, with medication or diet you can see major changes in your pets behavior, and improve their quality of life.

 Dental Disease in Senior Pets
Periodontal (dental) disease is a major chronic health problem in senior dogs, affecting 85 to 95 percent of all dogs age 4 and older. The first signs of periodontal disease are bad breath and a buildup of plaque on your dog's teeth, which can lead to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (inflammation of the soft tissue, ligaments and bone that surround and support the teeth). Without treatment, these conditions can lead to tooth loss and  provide entry for bacteria into the blood, which may lead to infection in almost any body organ. Consult your veterinarian when changes in your dog's mouth are first noted.

Kidney Problems

The first sign of kidney problems may be a pet that drinks more and urinates more. The pet may lose its appetite, vomit, or become sluggish. Older animals have more problems with urinary tract infection and some older female dogs develop urinary incontinence. There are diets and medication to help with these issues.

            Declining Vision

Eye changes begin around 7-8 years of age, senile or age-related cataract formation is common in pets older than 12. Eye changes may be a clue to disease elsewhere in the body. For example, hypertension can affect the eyes and cataracts may be due to diabetes.

            Slowing metabolic rate

Older pets have a tendency to gain weight and become obese. They are more likely to have heart and lung problems, joint problems and are an anesthetic risk. Older obese cats are more likely to develop diabetes, and both obese dogs and cats tend to live shorter lives. A diet for senior pets would be recommended.

            Endocrine diseases

Older animals are at risk for the development of thyroid diseases, diabetes and disorders of the adrenal glands. Early detection of these disorders is possible, and medication is available to help.

            Behavioral Changes

Older pets may seem confused or disoriented. They may sleep more, lose house training, become disinterested in their environment and even their owners. There are diets and medications that can help.

Heat and Cold intolerance

As your pet ages, they become more susceptible to extremes in temperature. They produce less of the hormones needed to maintain normal body temperature. Ensure your older pet has adequate shelter to keep them warm and dry in the winter, and also offers cool shade in the summer.