Senior pet care

Who this is for

Dogs and cats from about seven, earlier in large breeds. Also anyone who has been told, by anyone, that their animal is just getting old. That sentence hides a great deal of treatable pain.

Signs worth booking for

• Slowing on walks, or reluctance on stairs and into the car

• Drinking noticeably more, or asking to go out at night

• Weight change in either direction

• Stiffness after resting that eases once they get going

• Confusion, restlessness at night, or a change in how they greet you

• Lumps, bad breath, or a change in appetite

What happens on the day

A longer appointment than a standard consultation, with a mobility assessment, a weight and body condition check, blood pressure where relevant, and a conversation about what has changed at home. We usually recommend blood and urine screening once a year from this point.

How to prepare

Think about what they can’t do now that they could a year ago. Owners often underestimate this because the change was gradual: a video of them on the stairs or getting up from a lie-down tells us a lot.

Aftercare

Most senior plans are a combination of pain relief, weight management, diet and small changes at home. We review every few months and adjust. When the time comes for harder conversations, we will have them honestly and without rushing you.

Cost

An extended senior consultation is [price]. Screening bloodwork is quoted separately and often bundled with the visit: ask reception.