5 things to do when your pet becomes 10!

1. Annual routine blood test

More often than not, pets only begin to show symptoms of a serious illness once it is has
progressed to a severe stage. By doing annual routine blood panel screenings owners
can catch serious illness before it is too late. For example, pets may stop eating and
drinking with kidney failure and once they show these symptoms there isn’t all too much
that we can do to save their lives. An early blood panel screening would pick up a
problematic kidney count and allow owners to support their pet’s kidney before it
advances to failure.

2. Joint supplements

As animals age, the cartilage that cushions their joints can break down, leading to
arthritis and joint pain. Joint supplements, especially those containing glucosamine
and chondroitin, can help reduce inflammation and support cartilage regeneration,
which can ease arthritis symptoms. It is important to remember that many animals do
not show pain until it has become severe, and it is highly likely a pet that is age 10+ has
some discomfort in their joints.

3. Senior food

Senior food is important because it’s designed to address the specific nutritional needs
of older animals, which often differ from those of younger pets. Senior food can help
manage weight, support organ health, and maintain muscle mass as they age. 

4. Dental

Most pets do not need a dental in younger years but almost all of them will in their
senior years. General anaesthetics become riskier the older a pet gets, so waiting until
an older age such as 12 or 13 can put a pet at risk of anaesthesia complications. By giving
a dental at the age of 10, the teeth are already starting to decline, and this nips the
dental issue in the bud before it is too late.

5. Shorter, more frequent exercise (dogs)

Older dogs are more prone to arthritis and other joint issues, which can cause stiffness
and pain during walks. This can make it difficult for them to walk long distances or at a
fast pace and case discomfort. As dogs age, their stamina and endurance naturally
decrease. They may tire more easily and need more frequent rest breaks during
walks. Spreading out the walk time throughout the day is a kinder way to help your
dog age and still enjoy the great outdoors.