Two: Monitor your pet’s health carefully
Our pets age seven times faster than we do. Large breed dog’s age even faster. A mastiff or Doberman is considered a senior at 6 years of age.
In their golden years, it is important to take steps to maintain your pet’s health. Plan on visiting your veterinarian with your senior pet every six months. Physical exams should be performed, any new lumps or growths checked and any new concerns addressed. Notify your veterinarian if you notice an increase in your pet’s drinking or urination or change in appetite or activity level. Any changes in weight also need to be monitored.
Your veterinarian also may want to monitor blood chemistries, complete blood cell counts, urinalysis, and fecal exams to keep up on your aging pet’s overall health. Early detection of the disease means earlier treatment, and this can help extend the life of your pet.
By Dr. Katie Racek-Peters on behalf of Greater Rockford Veterinary Medical Association