Senior Dog Assessment. Mandatory Examination Guide

At some point, our beloved four-legged companions age, and the demands for care and attention become even more crucial. Elderly pets can live to a ripe old age if diagnosed in time and if the risks associated with their age are closely monitored. In our review, we have prepared for you a checklist taking into account the specificities of dog breeds and observations from our veterinarians.

Physical Examination: It is recommended to be done annually or every six months. Typically, this includes: weight fluctuations, condition of the skin and coat, as well as palpation or non-invasive screening for skin cancer to detect any tumors. Special attention should be given to this last point for owners of Bulldogs and Dogues de Bordeaux with wrinkled skin.

Blood and Urine Analysis: These important laboratory tests help assess the condition of organs (kidneys, liver, pancreas, heart, etc.). Kidney problems are often a major concern for breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, Shar-Peis, Dalmatians. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels often have heart problems due to mitral stenosis.

Eye and Ear Diagnosis: This helps prevent the development of infections at an early stage. Breeds with long ears, such as Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, etc., require special attention from the veterinary ophthalmologist and dermatologist.

Diagnostic Radiography: This helps detect the development of arthritis and degenerative changes in the joints, which often occur in elderly dogs. In addition to joint diagnosis, a comprehensive radiograph helps evaluate the condition of internal organs (heart, lungs, liver, spleen, and stomach), detect tumors, calculi, determine organ enlargement, and other issues.

Weight control is particularly important in older dogs to reduce musculoskeletal problems and the development of arthritis. This is especially crucial for dog breeds predisposed to obesity, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Shar-Peis, etc. Additionally, large dog breeds like German Shepherds or Great Danes often suffer from arthritis.

In such cases, it is recommended to have moderate physical activity and manage stress to maintain overall good health. Additionally, choosing special diets, foods, and a daily meal schedule tailored to the individual needs and breed of your dog is advisable.

Around 7-8 years old, more frequent and detailed examinations are recommended to detect potential threats early, and from 10 years old, more frequent veterinary visits and thorough examinations may be necessary.

Every dog is unique, which is why it's important to discuss your pet's individual needs with a veterinarian. Regular visits, proper nutritional care, appropriate activity levels, and careful health monitoring will help your dog maintain its activity and quality of life for many years.

In our veterinary clinics MVET.CH, we conduct comprehensive assessments for elderly dogs and cats and contribute to prolonging your pet's longevity. There are several ways to schedule an appointment for your dog and cat at the MVET clinic. You can call our telephone switchboard or make an appointment directly through our website. You can also consult with a veterinarian online at any time via the DRVET application.

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