Senior Dog Care
It’s important that your senior dog receives regular wellness exams to prevent and treat diseases that dogs are more prone to in their senior years such as bone and joint problems, hormone disorders, cancer, and diseases of the kidney, heart, and liver. At Belle Meade Animal Hospital, we recommend bi-annual wellness exam for senior dogs to screen for any underlying conditions that are common in senior pets.
During the senior wellness exam, your dog will receive:
- A thorough physical examination
- A detailed dental evaluation
- Tailored vaccinations
- Comprehensive diagnostic testing
- Parasite testing and prevention
- Heartworm testing and prevention
- Nutrition and diet counseling
- Behavioral evaluation and counseling
Our veterinarians will also discuss any age-related changes your dog may be experiencing or any concerns you have about his or her health such as nutrition, exercise, mobility, and changes in your pet’s lifestyle. To schedule your senior dog’s wellness exam, please call us at 615-352-4370.
Signs of an Emergency
Please call us if you notice any of the following signs to schedule an appointment to have your dog evaluated:
- Weight loss
- Decrease in appetite
- Bad breath or drooling
- Increased appetite, especially if accompanied by weight loss
- Excess urination
- Increased water intake
- Reduced exercise, increased stiffness, trouble jumping or walking
- Apparent pain when your cat moves or is handled
- Any vomiting, abnormal stool or decreased frequency of bowel movements
- A new lump or growth, especially if it appears to increase in size quickly
- Bloated abdomen
- Depression or listless behavior
- Excessive panting
- Heavy or rapid breathing when resting
- Coughing
