The Lifetime of your Pet
Compared with our lifespans, Dogs and Cats are born and age before our eyes. Our job is to give them the care they need, which they return to us in love, companionship, and devotion. Our clinic is equipped to start new puppies and kittens off right as well as attend to their needs as they reach old age. We encourage you to establish a relationship with our Veterinarian as soon as a new pet joins your household to give them the best tools for a long and happy life.
- Puppies and Kittens should first visit our Veterinarian at about six weeks of age. They will start to receive needed vaccinations, be tested and treated for parasites, microchipping is recommended, and Spaying/ Neutering is planned. As your pet grows, we can help answer questions about diet, exercise, socializing, behavior, and more.
- Cats and Dogs achieve Senior status at different times based on their species and breed. In general, cats are considered “senior” after 10 years. Dogs have a wider range based on their size. Smaller breeds generally have longer life spans so are considered senior around 10 years old. Larger dog breeds can be considered seniors sooner, at about 6-8 years old. There is no hard line a dog or cat crosses to be considered as a senior. Your Veterinarian will make recommendations for diet, frequency of testing and other advice as your pet ages to ensure they have a high quality of life. If you notice changes in activity, weight, or behavior your Veterinarian can assess and help formulate a plan.
- End-of-Life planning is one of the most difficult decisions you will have to make as a pet parent, but also can be the kindest gift you can give for to your ailing dog or cat. Our Veterinarians can help evaluate when your pet’s quality of life is suffering, and provide medical information about your pet’s condition to help you make difficult end-of-life decisions. The American Veterinary Medical Association has more information to help guide this difficult decision.
