Geriatric Medicine

 

Just like us, our dogs and cats undergo many changes associated with aging. Outwardly, you may notice variations in your pet's mobility, sleeping pattern and elimination habits. Additionally, there are changes that are less evident - organ, neurologic and metobolic function can all be impacted by old age.

 

When is a pet 'geriatric'? Generally, smaller dogs are considered getriatric at around 9 years of age, large dogs at 7 years of age and giant breeds of dog as young as 5 years of age. Cats are considered senior from 11 to 14 and geriatric from 15 years and on.

 


 

Understanding aging changes and what is 'normal' can be challenging. Some dogs look great for their age! Some need more assistance than others! Be sure to keep your pet's baseline in mind when evaluating their condition and changes - what's normal for one 12 year old dog is not necessarily normal for another. An important part of geriatric pet care is proactive care - Dr. Sivula recommends that older pets see their veterinarian for a physical examination every six months, and have bloodwork and x-rays checked at least every 12 months.

 

We strive to make visits less stressful for older patients by creating a calm, quiet environment at our office. Pets are never evaluated on exam tables, but instead are allowed to rest comfortably on beds or the floor. We set aside a full half hour for our recheck visits, to ensure that you have time to ask any questions and treatment isn't rushed. We have aromatherapy and pheromone products that soothe and reassure pets.

 

 

Dr. Sivula has vast experience treating older pets, and can help address common problems and concerns, such as:

 

  • Weight changes (either obesity or thin body condition) - sometimes older pets become overweight, putting undo stress on their joints and limbs. Other pets have difficulty gaining weight and become too thin. We can tailor a nutrition and supplement regimen to meet your dog or cat's needs as their metabolism and calorie needs change.
  • Chronic diseases - we understand that many pets have complicating factors like kidney, liver or gastrointestinal diseases. We offer treatment options to complement traditional therapies, and supplements that can lessen the toxic effects of maintenance medications. There are also natural alternatives for pets that are not candidates for receiving traditional therapies.
  • Mobility changes - difficulty with mobility is the most common problem in older dogs and cats. Owners often report weakness in the hind end, trouble rising from a sit or after laying down, difficulty with stairs or jumps and sometimes behavior changes associated with painful orthopedic conditions like arthritis. Some cat owners even note that their cats begin eliminating outside of the litter box, which as times can be attributed to difficulty climbing into and out of the box or pain when squatting. Acupuncture and chiropractic care are immensely beneficial to these pets, as well as massage therapy and other treatments like our water treadmill therapy. 

  • Cancer - some of our older patients come to us with a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Sivula has much experience in providing these dogs and cats with alternative and integrative care to afford them as much quality time as possible.
  • Cognitive changes - as the body ages, so does the brain, and many owners notice behavioral changes in their older pet. Herbal products to promote healthy neurological function are often helpful and can even reverse mild symptoms while still being very gentle on the body.