From Puppy to Senior
Life Stage Care
The needs and behavior of a growing puppy or kitten are different from that of an active adult pet and significantly different for our senior pets.
Each life stage brings its own unique joy and responsibilities.
Dr. Glen and his staff are excited to educate you on each stage to keep your best friend happy and healthy. The following life stage descriptions will show you what we consider important when offering you different pet health care services.
Remember, pets age much faster than humans and our objective is to make your pet as healthy and comfortable as possible in each and every stage of life.
JUVENILE LIFE STAGE (BIRTH - 2 YEARS)
Immunization
Your pet is susceptible to a variety of bacterial and viral infections that can cause serious harm and even death. At this crucial stage, vaccinations are given at specific intervals to ensure protective immune production.Nutrition
One of the most important things you can do for your puppy or kitten is to feed an appropriate diet. We offer Super Premium Pet Food which will help proper growth and development plus help maintain a strong immune system.Spay or Neuter
Spaying or neutering your pet is an important part of pet ownership and an important choice to keep your pet happy and healthy. Research has shown that pets that are spayed or neutered have a longer life expectancy than pets that have not been spayed or neutered.Parasite Prevention
Parasites and zoonotic (animal to human) disease transmission are a serious health concern. Puppies and kittens can be born with roundworms, so a parasite prevention program is important in raising a happy, healthy pet.
ADULT LIFE STAGE (2 -7 YEARS)
Important health requirements during this life stage will include:
Adult Early Detection Physical Exam
Physical exams and blood screenings can help identify developing medical problems. We recommend yearly exams for pets less then seven years old. By establishing a baseline of normal values during the adult years, we can better detect any changes that might indicate health problems.
Immunization
Up-to-date vaccinations play a large part in keeping your pet healthy and free from disease. However, not every pet requires the same number of or frequency of vaccines. Our veterinarians tailor a vaccine protocol specific to your pet based on lifestyle and immune status.
Nutrition
Your adult pet should have been transitioned onto a high quality adult pet food. A diet recommendation will be made that will help with preventing breed related illness and maintain proper nutrition.
Regular Dental Care
The number one health problem diagnosed in young adult dogs and cats is periodontal disease. Dental disease puts stress on your pet’s immune system and body organs. We will examine your pet’s teeth to determine if a dental cleaning is required along with a home care program.
SENIOR LIFE STAGE (7+ YEARS)
Seniors have special unique requirements. Twice-yearly exams are very important at this stage. Important health requirements during this life stage will include:
Senior Advanced Diagnostic Exam
As animals get older, age related problems are more prevalent. At this stage in life our array of diagnostic exams is more extensive. We are looking for these age related concerns.
- Heart, liver and kidney disease
- Periodontal disease
- Cataracts, blindness and deafness
- Urinary incontinence
- Thyroid gland function
- Arthritis and obesity
- Tumors & Diabetes
- Prostatic disease
- Anemia and/or high blood pressure
- Behavioral changes
- Cognitive dysfunction syndrome
Immunization
At this stage, vaccinations are given based upon the physical examination findings and lifestyle evaluation.
Nutrition
Your senior dog or cat should have been transitioned onto a high quality senior pet food or special prescription diets. .