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Senior Pet Care in Kitchener

Your senior pet is a cherished family member who deserves quality care that evolves as they age. At Huron East Animal Hospital, we offer senior pet care designed to enhance their quality of life and keep them as comfortable as possible during their golden years. Our experienced team works closely with you to craft a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.

We provide various services, whether you’re seeking an exam to assess a senior cat in their golden years or looking for assistance for quality of life decisions . Our staff is here to support both you and your furry friend through each stage of their journey. You can rest assured that your pet is in loving and capable hands, receiving the utmost respect and care. If you’re looking for senior pet care in Kitchener, call us today!

Call Us: (519) 895-8883Request an appointment

Signs Your Pet Needs Senior Pet Care

Several signs indicate that your pet may need senior care as they age. By recognizing these signs early, you can help address potential health issues and improve their quality of life, allowing them to remain comfortable and happy in their later years. Signs your pet may need senior care include:

1

Changes in Mobility & Activity:

Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or jumping, along with increased lethargy or excessive sleeping, may indicate joint pain, arthritis, or general age-related slowing down.
2

Appetite, Weight, & Drinking Changes:

A decrease or increase in appetite, unexplained weight gain or loss, and increased or decreased thirst and urination can signal underlying health issues like diabetes, kidney disease, or dental problems.
3

Dental & Eating Problems:

Bad breath, drooling, difficulty chewing, or reluctance to eat can indicate dental disease, which is common in senior pets and can lead to other health complications.
4

Behavioural Changes:

Increased anxiety, confusion, disorientation, or signs of cognitive decline (such as forgetting commands or family members) can be common in aging pets.
5

Coat, Skin, & Breathing Issues:

A dull or thinning coat, dry, flaky skin, or changes in breathing (such as coughing or difficulty breathing) could point to age-related conditions, including thyroid problems, heart disease, or respiratory issues.
6

Behaviour Changes:

Changes in your dog's behaviour, such as increased irritability, withdrawal, or reluctance to play, can signify dental discomfort, hidden pain, or they could become more sensitive to objects or noises in their environment. Whenever a patient's behaviour is changing it is important to have an examination to determine what can be done to alleviate symptoms and discuss potential adaptations that may need to be introduced to improve quality of life at home.

Our Senior Pet Services

Our vets recognizes how important it is to give your senior pet the care they deserve. Our goal is to provide the support your pet needs to live comfortably and maintain a high quality of life in their golden years. Our senior pet services include:

Wellness Exams & General Health Screening:

We offer your pet a thorough wellness exam, including recommending blood work and urinalysis, to assess their overall health and monitor internal organ function, helping to detect any potential issues early.

Senior Nutrition & Supplements:

Our vets provides tailored nutrition plans and supplements for senior pets, focusing on joint mobility, addressing behavioral changes like dementia, and supporting overall internal organ health.

Treatment & Medications:

We offer personalized treatments and medications for age-related conditions, managing pain and chronic health issues to keep your pet comfortable and healthy. This can include joint pain relief for dogs and cats.

Librela™ /Solensia™ for Osteoarthritis:

We provide a specialized pain management injection for osteoarthritis to help improve mobility and manage discomfort in your senior dog or cat.

Quality of Life Discussions:

Our staff offer compassionate discussions on end-of-life care, including senior dogs, cats, rabbits, rats and guinea pig euthanasia options, prioritizing your pet's comfort and dignity during their final stages. We offer traditional flame cremation as well as aquamation to allow you more options for aftercare.

Our Senior Pet Care Process

Our senior pet care process begins with a consultation to assess your pet’s overall health and address any concerns you may have. During this appointment, our vet will evaluate your pet’s condition, perform any necessary tests, and help create a personalized care plan. We take the time to explain treatment options and answer any questions so you feel confident in your decisions for your pet’s health.

In cases where end-of-life care is needed, we offer compassionate euthanasia services. We understand how difficult this time can be, so we provide a separate, comforting room where families can spend private time with their pets. Our team supports you and your pet with care, respect, and dignity during this emotional moment.

Senior Pet FAQs

We understand the important role your pet plays in your family, and we recognize that caring for a senior pet can raise many questions. Our compassionate team is here to provide the answers and guidance you need, supporting you through each step of your pet’s care. We’re committed to helping you make informed decisions to keep your pet comfortable and happy. Common questions regarding our senior pet care include:

When should I start considering senior pet care for my dog or cat?

Most pets are considered seniors around the age of 7, but this can vary depending on your pet’s breed and size. For example, larger dogs often age faster than smaller dogs, so it’s important to begin senior care when you notice signs of aging.

Can I still give my senior pet treats?

Treats can still be part of your pet’s diet, but choosing age-appropriate options is important, especially for pets with dietary restrictions or health concerns like diabetes or obesity. We can suggest suitable treats that won’t negatively impact their health.

How can I support my pets emotionally as they age?

Senior pets may experience changes in behavior, including anxiety or confusion. Providing a calm, safe space, offering mental stimulation through puzzle toys, and maintaining a strong bond with plenty of affection can help support your pet emotionally during their later years.

Quality Senior Pet Care in Kitchener

At Huron East Animal Hospital, we understand that caring for a senior pet comes with unique challenges, and we’re here to help every step of the way. Our vet works closely with you to create a personalized care plan focusing on your pet’s comfort and quality of life. Regardless of your reason for visiting us, we’re committed to supporting you and your furry friend. Call us today to learn more about our care for senior pets in Kitchener!