I talked to a friend of mine the other day. Bob is about 60 years old and has been having some difficulty getting up and down the stairs in his home. He’s been out of breath recently, too. I asked him if he’s had a physical recently, but unfortunately he couldn’t answer me. You see, Bob is a Golden Retriever who is eight years old in human years but obviously quite a bit older in “dog years”.

Because so many pets have received good veterinary care, diligent home care, and high-quality nutrition, more animals than ever before are living longer lives. Consequently, we are seeing more age-related problems such as heart disease, arthritis and cancer. Many of these age-related disorders are insidious and irreversible, so it is imperative that they be caught early enough for medical or surgical intervention to be most effective.

Just as women reaching the age of forty recognize the importance of a baseline mammogram (and guys, it’s the prostate for you), physical exams and diagnostic testing are increasingly important in “senior pets” (around age 7 in cats and dogs).

As for Bob the Golden Retriever, I found that he has a heart murmur and some arthritis, both of which are treatable with medication. Years ago, Bob would have been put to sleep, but now he is running up and down the stairs like a puppy!

Till next time,

Dr. Steve

p.s. Excessive water drinking is often and indicator of some age-related problems. Call us if you have a parched pooch or thirsty kitty!

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