Thankful, Grateful, Blessed To Have Senior Pets

November is National Senior Pet Month. It is the month we set aside to celebrate the companions we have known and loved for many years. They have become loyal family members that love us unconditionally and without hesitation. They are always there, content to be by our side. But sometimes, because they are always by our side – every day, day after day – we do not recognize the slow fading of youth’s vitality and health.

Dogs do not age 7 years for every human year, and cats do not age the same as dogs. Cats are generally considered “senior” after they reach the age of 10, while dogs tend to age according to their size. Small dogs of less than 20 lbs. reach senior status between 8-11 years; medium sized dogs of 20-50 lbs. between 8-10 years; large dogs of 50-90 lbs. between 8-9 years; and giant breeds of dogs of over 90 lbs. become seniors at only 6-7 years (AVMA, 2025).

Just like humans, our pets need more care and health monitoring as they age. The AVMA (2025) recommends senior pets see their veterinarian twice a year, so any signs of declining health are caught early when they are treatable and much less costly. Typical items your veterinarian addresses in the senior exam are:

• Diet and nutrition as senior pets often have different nutritional needs than younger pets.
• Weight gain in dogs, or loss in cats, increases the risk of health problems.
• Parasite control due to a decreasing ability to fight off parasites or heal as quickly.
• Vaccination because the immune system weakens as your pet ages.
• Mental health to detect any behavioral changes indicating cognitive dysfunction.
• Environmental / lifestyle changes like avoiding stairs, spending more time outdoors, etc.

Pain in pets is rarely obvious because they tend to instinctively hide their discomfort (Cane, 2025). Signs that deserve attention are:

• Hesitating to jump on furniture or into the car.
• Stiffness after sleeping or resting.
• Excessively licking or chewing at a specific joint.
• Hiding, avoiding interaction, or sleeping alone.
• Increased vocalization, panting, or restlessness.
• Changes in posture, such as an arched back.

Any of the above behaviors may indicate your pet is experiencing chronic pain. While traditional medication may work for some pets, a recent study by Zoetis (Gribble, 2025) found that less than ¼ of the medication prescribed was being administered. This may be due to the difficulty of pilling the pet. Many senior pets have better results with a monthly injection of Librella (for dogs) or Solensia (for cats). For those owners looking for a more natural, non-invasive treatment, Fox Run Animal Hospital offers laser therapy. And when the chronic pain is in the mouth, we have full digital dentistry services.

Caring for an aging pet is not the same for everyone (Golden Paw Care, 2025). Dr. Findora will create a plan customized to your pet’s needs. You can help by:

1. Making sure your pet has proper nutrition that addresses the right number of calories and amount of protein for your pet’s age and breed.
2. Keeping your pet hydrated because older pets are more prone to dehydration.
3. Providing a mobility-friendly environment with rugs that prevent slipping, comfortable and warm bedding, ramps or steps to climb up to their favorite spot, etc.
4. Engaging your pet with mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzle toys, treat dispensing games, and gentle training sessions that reduce anxiety or boredom.
5. Monitor their grooming and adapt techniques that help your pet maintain a healthy coat.
6. Understand emotional changes in older pets that may result in closer, more frequent physical contact and a decreased desire to explore.
7. Ensuring you understand and provide your pet with the “right” amount of exercise.
8. Taking care of your pet’s oral health, which directly impacts their comfort and quality of life, and often prevents disease that can affect their major organs (Humane Society, 2024).

If you are not on a regular schedule for senior health exams, call our office today to make an appointment. Our mission statement is: YOUR PET’S HEALTH IS OUR TOP PRIORITY!

References:

1. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA.) 2025. Caring for Senior Cats and Dogs. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/senior-pets. 11/2/25
2. Cane Bay Veterinary Clinic (Cane). 8/18/25. How to Recognize and Treat Chronic Pain in Senior Pets. https://canebayvetclinic.com/how-to-recognize-and-treat-chronic-pain-in-senior-pets/. 11/2/25
3. Golden Paw Care. 5/29/25. Senior Pet Care. https://goldenpawcare.com/senior-pet-care/. 11/2/25
4. Gribble, R. 2025. Your Best Shot at a Future with Pharmacy: The Monoclonal Era. Zoetis Conference 10/21/25.
5. Human Society of West Michigan. 7/19/24. Supporting Your Senior Pet: Comprehensive Care for Their Golden Years. https://www.hswestmi.org/bunnysbuds/supporting-your-senior-pet-comprehensive-care-for-their-golden-years. 11/2/25