As your pet ages, his or her veterinary medical care needs change. Most pets are considered “seniors” between the ages of four and seven. Wellness examinations, blood work, and dietary counseling all are important steps you can take toward keeping your senior pet healthy and happy. Here are a few reasons why senior pets are great!
They have better manners. Often, senior pets have already been socialized and learned basic commands, like sit, come, stay, and down. Most are house trained (but if your senior pet needs a house-training refresher, you should be able to get her trained in a couple of days—see number 2 below!). And, if you value your shoes, furniture, and other belongings, a senior pet will be less likely to be destructive than a new puppy or kitten.
They’re focused and smart. Unlike their younger counterparts, senior pets can more easily focus on tasks and on learning new commands. Senior pets are attentive and eager to please their humans, so training typically comes easier, whether you do it yourself or call a professional trainer. (If you do it yourself, remember to always use positive reinforcement training methods!)
They’re calm. If you want a calm, relaxed companion, a senior pet is your best bet. They’ve already burned all of that wild energy that comes with youth, so you can focus on spending quality time together without having to chase around a hyper puppy or kitten.
Harbor View Veterinary Hospital strives to provide complete care for all older cats and dogs. Our senior wellness exams, laboratory tests, dietary counseling program, and holistic treatment options are specially-designed for your older pet’s good health. Click here to learn more.