Senior Pet Care
Veterinary care for the latter years.
Health Care For Senior Pets
As pets age, their healthcare needs evolve, making regular veterinary visits more important than ever. Senior pets are at a higher risk for conditions like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis—many of which can develop gradually and go unnoticed. What may seem like simple slowing down or stiffness could actually be early signs of underlying health concerns. That’s why proactive, routine care is key to keeping your aging companion happy and comfortable.
At Holly Ridge Veterinary Hospital, we recommend comprehensive wellness exams every six months for senior pets, along with lab testing every 6-12 months. These tests help us detect subtle changes in organ function, monitor for early signs of disease, and make adjustments to your pet’s care before issues become more serious.
Your pet has been by your side for years, and we’re here to ensure they receive the gentle, attentive care they deserve in their golden years. Whether it’s managing chronic conditions, providing pain relief, or simply ensuring their quality of life remains high, our team is here for you and your senior pet every step of the way.
If your aging pet hasn’t had a recent check-up, give us a call today to schedule an appointment. Let’s keep them feeling their best for as long as possible.
How Our Veterinarians Support Your Senior Pet:
- Early Detection & Prevention – Catch potential health problems before they progress.
- Arthritis & Pain Management – Help your pet stay comfortable and active as they age.
- Nutritional & Lifestyle Guidance – Adjust diet and exercise for changing needs.
- Ongoing Monitoring – Track health trends with regular exams and lab work.
- Compassionate End-of-Life Care – Supportive guidance for difficult decisions.
Signs Your Pet May Need Veterinary Attention
As pets age, changes in their behavior or physical condition can signal underlying health concerns. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to schedule a veterinary check-up to ensure your pet stays happy and comfortable.
- Changes in Bathroom Habits – Increased accidents, difficulty urinating, or constipation could indicate kidney issues, diabetes, or other health conditions.
- Confusion or Disorientation – If your pet seems lost in familiar places or appears anxious for no reason, they may be experiencing cognitive decline.
- Decreased Responsiveness – A lack of engagement or reduced reaction to sounds and commands may be a sign of hearing loss or neurological issues.
- Breathing Difficulties – Labored breathing, coughing, or irregular breathing patterns can be early signs of heart or respiratory disease.
- Mobility Issues – Struggling to climb stairs, reluctance to jump, or stiffness after resting may indicate arthritis or joint pain.
- Vision or Hearing Changes – Bumping into objects, difficulty tracking movement, or ignoring familiar sounds could be signs of aging-related sensory decline.
- Sudden Weight Loss or Gain – Unexplained weight changes could be linked to metabolic diseases like thyroid disorders, diabetes, or organ dysfunction.
- Skin or Coat Changes – Excessive scratching, hair loss, or flaky skin might point to allergies, infections, or hormonal imbalances.
- Limping or Stiffness – Favoring a leg, difficulty getting up, or a noticeable change in gait can indicate pain, arthritis, or injury.
- Tremors or Shaking – Uncontrolled shaking or trembling, especially when at rest, could be a sign of neurological issues or chronic pain.
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—early intervention can make all the difference in their health and quality of life. Give us a call today!
Veterinary Wellness Care for Onslow County and Beyond
Improve your pet’s quality of life & longevity with regular wellness services.
Holly Ridge Veterinary Hospital
324 US Hwy 17 N
Holly Ridge, North Carolina 28445
Phone: (910) 803-2190
Fax: (910) 210-0026
Email: info@hollyridgevetcare.com
Hospital Hours
