Senior PetsWorking with your veterinarian to successfully manage your pet’s health

pettalknews

Winter 2016

did you know?

Over half of all cats and dogs in the United States are Overweight or Obese. Pet obesity continues to be a growing

problem, and most pet owners are unaware of the issue. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), an estimated 58% of Cats and 54% of Dogs are overweight

or obese. Founded in 2005, APOP is made up of dedicated veterinarians and veterinary healthcare personnel who are committed to making the lives of dogs, cats, all other animals and people healthier and

more vital. They know that extra weight can contribute to many illnesses, including diabetes, heart and respiratory disease, cancer and decreased life expectancy. As pets get older, these problems increase. Regular veterinary visits can

help with early diagnosis and possible prevention of many of these illnesses.

   

                                           

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While it’s easy to spot the outward signs of aging such as graying haircoat and slower pace, it’s important to remember a pet’s organ systems are also changing. By age seven, most cats and dogs are considered geriatric, and an older pet is more likely to develop diseases such as heart, kidney and liver disease, cancer or arthritis. Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans, while cats have a somewhat lower rate. Dental disease is also a major concern for pets and one the most common problems in senior cats.

Although pets age faster than humans, improved veterinary care and dietary habits have made it possible for them to live longer than ever! Pet owners can do their part by taking a proactive approach with their pet’s healthcare. Preventive veterinary care, including dental exams and regular cleanings, can add years and quality of life to your older pet.

To combat possible health issues that come with age, semi-annual visits to the vet are recommended for senior pets. In addition to dental care, these visits may include bloodwork and additional testing in order to detect and treat any problems early on. A twice-yearly checkup can do much to keep up your senior’s quality of life. The earlier a diagnosis is made, the earlier treatment can be started and, generally, the better the prognosis. Regular veterinary exams may also teach you about your pet and what to expect in the coming years.

Pet owners also need to be aware of the possibility of their dog or cat developing diabetes. Warning signs are lethargy, excessive thirst and frequent urination. While there’s no cure for diabetes, proper care can help your pet live a happy, healthy, active life.

The more you know, the better you’ll be able to work with your veterinarian to successfully manage your pet’s health.

What to expect when your pet becomes a senior

Download in the App store by searching: EACC Vet

How important is grooming? Regular grooming isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Keeping your pet well groomed not only makes for a clean-smelling companion, it also helps keep your pet more comfortable and allows you to spot health problems before they become serious, or even life-threatening. During the grooming process, lumps, bumps or injuries may be detected, all while clearing mats and ticks from their coat.

Silky-coated dogs such as Afghan Hounds, Cockers and Maltese need constant brushing to keep tangles from forming. Coats of this type require so much attention that having a groomer keep the dogs trimmed to a medium length is often more practical. In fact, experts say that the pets who shed the least are longhaired dogs kept short-trimmed by a groomer.

Curly and wiry coats, such as those on Terriers, need to be brushed weekly. Curly coats need to be clipped every six weeks; wiry ones, two or three times a year (though clipping every six weeks will keep your Terrier looking sharper).

Breeds such as Collies, Chows, Keeshonden and Alaskan Malamutes are “double-coated,” which means they have a downy undercoat underneath a harsher layer of long hair. The down can mat like a layer of felt against the skin if left untended. In the spring and fall — the big shedding times — you’ll end up with enough fluffy undercoat to make a whole new dog. Regular grooming will help with shedding and keep your pet comfortable all year long.

Empower Your Pet Through ExerciseWhen it comes to living a long, pain-and disease-free life, research proves our most powerful partner is daily exercise.

For dogs, as little as 20 to 30-minutes of brisk walking is all it takes to boost immune function, improve cardiovascular health and reduce many behavioral problems. Do yourself and your dog a favor and commit to daily walks, rain or shine. For assistance with getting your furry friend used to walking on a leash or interacting with other people and pets in their path, consider participating in a behavior training class to learn the best tips and tricks for the most pleasant experience. Remember, the health benefits of walking extend to both ends of the leash.

For cats, try playing with a laser pointer, remote-controlled toy or ball of paper for 5 to 15 minutes each day.

During the recent annual meeting of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (ISVMA), Dr. Sandra Faeh was appointed President of the association. A long-time member, Dr. Faeh is the past Vice-President and has been an integral part of the association for many years.

ISVMA is focused on advancing the well-being of veterinary medical professionals, the public and the environment. The association predicts, monitors and confronts issues that affect the professional practice and licenses of Illinois veterinarians, including laws and regulations affecting the veterinary profession.

One of the association’s main objectives is to provide affordable, accessible and high-quality continuing education programs for veterinarians and other veterinary practice personnel. Approximately 3,000 ISVMA member veterinarians, veterinary students and Certified Veterinary Technicians depend upon the representation and services provided by the ISVMA.

Congratulations Dr. Sandra Faeh, New President of ISVMA

Please Send Us Your Favorite Pictures of Your Pets! Patient photos help us maintain accurate records and we love looking at our furry friends!

Please email pictures to: elmhurstvets@gmail.com and be sure to include your name and your pet’s name(s)! If you prefer that we take the photo, stop in anytime and we’ll be happy to do it!

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDCAROL STREAM, IL

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This coupon entitles me to a $10 gift card for Panera Bread after my first new patient appointment.

Appointment must be paid in full to qualify. Offer Ends 3/31/17.

This coupon entitles me to a $10 gift card for Panera Bread after my first new patient appointment.

Appointment must be paid in full to qualify. Offer Ends 3/31/17.

This coupon entitles me to a $10 gift card for Panera Bread after my first new patient appointment.

Appointment must be paid in full to qualify. Offer Ends 3/31/17.

Start the New Year Off Right!

The New Year is a perfect time to enroll in a Preventative Care Plan. These monthly wellness plans allow you to see your veterinarian on a regular basis while distributing the costs of preventative care over the year instead of paying all at once. You’ll be able to increase the

chances of early detection of developing problems and your pet reaps the benefit of better health.

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850 S. Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 (630) 530-1900

www.elmhurstanimalcarecenter.com

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For After Hours Emergencies, please call:(630) 337-3070

To enroll your pet or for more information, please speak with an Elmhurst Animal Care Center associate or call (630) 530-1900.

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Register at: 850 S. Riverside Dr. Elmhurst, IL | 630.530.1900 | www.elmhurstanimalcarecenter.com

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