Senior Pet Care
Senior Pet Care
Compassionate Geriatric Vet Care in Blairsville, PA
As pets age, their needs change. Sometimes slowly, and other times all at once. At East Market Veterinary Center, we recognize that your senior dog or cat is more than just a pet, they’re a member of your family. That’s why we offer gentle, thorough, and tailored senior pet care in Blairsville, PA, designed to support your pet’s comfort, health, and quality of life.
Led by Dr. Ashley Deforno, our experienced team is committed to walking alongside you during your pet’s golden years. Whether your companion is slowing down, experiencing age-related health conditions, or simply in need of more frequent checkups, we’re here to help.
What Age Is Considered Senior for Dogs and Cats?
While every pet is unique, most dogs are considered senior around 7 years old, and cats at about 10 to 11 years. Size, breed, and medical history can all influence how quickly aging signs appear. At East Market, we don’t just look at a number. We consider your pet’s full picture when developing a veterinary care plan.
What Are the Common Health Issues in Senior Pets?
As pets grow older, they are more prone to developing chronic or degenerative conditions. Common concerns we monitor and treat include:
- Arthritis and joint discomfort
- Heart and kidney disease
- Dental disease and tooth loss
- Cognitive decline or behavior changes
- Vision or hearing loss
- Tumors or unexplained lumps
- Metabolic issues such as diabetes or thyroid disorders
Early detection through routine wellness exams allows us to manage these issues before they compromise your pet’s well-being.
What Are Signs of Aging to Watch for in My Pet?
Aging signs can show up gradually or suddenly, depending on the pet. You may notice:
- Stiffness or slower movement
- Increased thirst or urination
- Cloudy eyes or vision loss
- Weight changes
- Confusion or disorientation
- Changes in sleep or social behavior
- Bad breath or difficulty eating
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule a senior wellness visit. We can help determine if these changes are a normal part of aging or an early sign of a treatable condition.
What’s Included in a Senior Pet Wellness Plan?
Our geriatric veterinary care is proactive and personalized. A typical senior wellness plan at East Market Veterinary Center includes:
- Twice-yearly comprehensive physical exams
- Bloodwork and urinalysis to detect early disease
- Blood pressure monitoring if deemed necessary for the care plan
- Full dental evaluations and cleanings on an annual basis
- Nutritional counseling and diet adjustments
- Mobility and arthritis assessments
- Vaccination review and parasite prevention
This thorough approach allows us to provide ongoing, adaptive care that fits your pet’s needs as they age.
Can I Get Dental Care for My Senior Pet in Blairsville, PA?
Yes, senior pets can absolutely receive dental care at our Blairsville clinic. Dental disease is especially common in older dogs and cats, often going unnoticed until it leads to discomfort or infection. That’s why we take extra steps to ensure their safety.
Before any procedure requiring anesthesia, we perform pre-anesthetic blood work to assess your pet’s overall health and ensure it’s safe to move forward. Our senior dental services include:
- Professional teeth cleanings
- Safe tooth extractions when needed
- Gum disease treatment
Our goal is to keep your pet’s mouth healthy, help prevent systemic illness, and ensure they can eat comfortably throughout their golden years.
How Often Should Senior Pets Visit the Vet?
We recommend that senior pets visit at least once a year. If your pet has a chronic medical condition, we suggest scheduling checkups twice a year. These regular visits help us catch issues early and adjust treatment plans as your pet’s needs change.
How Can I Improve My Senior Dog’s Mobility?
Mobility loss can have a significant impact on your pet’s happiness and independence. We offer solutions like:
- Joint supplements or senior-friendly nutrition
- Safe, low-impact exercise plans
- Pain-relief medications
- Weight management support
- Comfort suggestions like orthopedic bedding or ramps
Every recommendation is tailored to your dog’s lifestyle, age, and current level of activity.
Are There Pain Management Options for Senior Pets?
Absolutely. Pain is not something your pet should have to live with. We provide a full range of senior pain management options, including:
- Prescription pain medications
- Laser therapy
- Personalized treatment plans that balance comfort and function
- Ongoing evaluation to adjust care over time
Our team monitors your pet’s behavior closely and works with you to ensure they stay as comfortable as possible.
Should I Change My Senior Pet’s Diet or Nutrition?
In most cases, yes. A senior pet’s metabolism, digestion, and nutritional needs shift with age. Dr. Deforno may recommend:
- Senior-specific pet foods for weight control and joint support
- Adjusted calorie intake to maintain ideal weight
- Therapeutic diets for chronic illnesses like kidney or liver disease
We’ll help you choose the right diet that supports your pet’s overall wellness and health goals.
Ready to embark on a journey of
unparalleled care for your pet?
Why Choose East Market Veterinary Center for Geriatric Pet Care?
Choosing the right veterinary partner matters, especially for senior pets. At East Market, we offer:
- Personalized veterinary care plans based on breed, age, and lifestyle
- State-of-the-art diagnostics and in-house lab capabilities
- A calming environment with gentle handling techniques
- A team that knows your pet by name—and cares for them like family
- Trusted leadership from Dr. Ashley Deforno, who believes in open communication and compassionate care
We’re more than a clinic, we’re your partner in your pet’s health journey.
Schedule Your Senior Pet’s Exam in Blairsville Today
Your senior pet has given you years of loyalty and love. Now it’s time to give them the care they deserve. At East Market Veterinary Center in Blairsville, PA, we’re here to help your aging pet thrive. Call our office or schedule online to book your senior pet’s next visit with us. Let’s make their golden years truly shine.