Pets have a faster metabolism than people.  Therefore, age related conditions begin earlier in their lives than in ours.  It is true that some cats and dogs will live to be 15 or more years old. Many without having any major health issues. but most pets will start changing to a large extent earlier.  It very often is difficult to determine when changes are occurring in our pets, they come over a longer period of time. Unless our pet family members are in pain or agony, they may not bring their needs to our attention. Many pets are lethargic, especially when in their home environment and in these cases one may not notice the changes which are gradually occurring. There are so many conditions that hinder or disable a pet, and we may just think they are lazy or old. In fact, with some of the more energetic breeds, we may look forward to the pets quieting down some and demanding less of us for physical exercise. Pets may have a condition that is causing pain or lethargy that can be controlled, or the progress of the disease that may be delayed. More about Klima Small Animal Clinic Senior Dog and Klima Small Animal Clinic Senior Cat

Skin diseases are common problems among aging dogs and some cats.  If your pet smells, there may be a skin disease that we can treat, and control.  Some skin conditions are caused by metabolic or endocrine disease. Diseases such as arthritis or intervertebral disc disease can creep up so slowly, that the pet just accepts it. It is only when the pet is encouraged that they over-exercise, and we quickly discover the pain they are experiencing. Cats may suffer from Arthritis or Back Problems as well as dogs. Noticing things like if your cat doesn't jump up onto higher surfaces any more can alert you that your pet is aging and may need more comprehensive care. We can detect arthritis and skeletal pain from the information you give, and from a complete physical exam and x-rays. X-rays are commonly used to assess the exact sites of arthritis, its degree of severity and staging. X-rays assist our staff in determining the best course of treatment for your aging pet. Heart Disease is very common with older pets and unfortunately  in cats, the disease may go unnoticed until an emergency situation develops. Heart disease in dogs generally has early symptoms.  A slight cough starts, particularly at night and the dog may not want to finish their usual walk or regular exercise.  Heart disease in dogs may have signs so subtle and may appear as several other diseases appear.  Eventually, the cough may worsen and they may lose their appetite, have trouble sleeping at night. Kidney and Lower Urinary Tract Infections may go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Often times, pet owners are unaware until the pet urinates in too many inappropriate places. The progression of kidney disease can be slowed given proper care.  Many lower urinary problems can be 100% corrected, or in the case of incontinence, controlled with medication. To detect Kidney and lower urinary tract disease an exam, blood work and urinalysis are used.  Additionally, X-rays are used to detect stones or tumors. Urinary tract disorders are common in both dogs and cats. Endocrine Diseases are also common in both dogs and cats.  Endocrine disease involves glands that produce hormones.  These diseases are classically very slow to start; and more often, are not easily detectable by the general physical exam, until the disease is evident and significantly progressed.  These diseases are typically treatable. Each disease can affect multiple organ systems and the earlier they are detected, the less damage to the your pet's body occurs. Common endocrine diseases include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and hyperadrenalcortisism.  These diseases are detected with information you give us, examinations, blood work and urinalysis.

We at Klima Small Animal Clinic will assist you when these diseases are detected and through regular checkups and  your observation of your dog's behavior, weight changes, activity we hopefully can treat these conditions before an animal requires emergency care.

In addition to the physical examination, the evaluation of your pet's blood and urine will allow us to determine if your pet is still in good physical condition; and/or if there are significant changes taking place.  We can make educated recommendations for your pet family member which will help to keep him or her with you, comfortable and happy, for as long as possible.