Geriatric Exams for Senior Dogs: Helping Your Best Friend Age Gracefully
As your dog grows older, their needs change—and that means their veterinary care should evolve, too. At Ridgetowne Animal Clinic, we believe your loyal companion deserves the same devotion in their golden years as they’ve given you throughout their life. Our geriatric exams are designed to catch health concerns early, manage age-related changes, and help your dog enjoy a happy, comfortable senior life.
Why Senior Dog Wellness Matters
Most dogs are considered “senior” around age 7. Aging happens faster in dogs than humans, and even if they still seem energetic, underlying health issues can quietly progress. Routine senior exams help us:
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Detect problems early
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Improve treatment outcomes
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Keep your dog thriving for longer
What We Evaluate During a Senior Dog Exam
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Comprehensive Physical Exam: We assess your pet’s heart, lungs, joints, eyes, ears, skin, abdomen, and more.
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Urinalysis: Screens for urinary tract infections, pH imbalances, crystals, or even bladder cancer.
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Intestinal Parasite Screening: Ensures your pet is free of parasites that could affect overall health.
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Heartworm Test: Detects potentially life-threatening heartworms.
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Early Detection Bloodwork: Checks kidney, liver, thyroid function, blood sugar, and electrolyte levels.
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Abdominal Ultrasound: Allows us to examine internal organs and detect hidden issues before symptoms appear.
Supporting Healthy Aging in Dogs
Geriatric care focuses on more than just detecting disease. We also help manage:
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Weight and nutrition
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Joint health and mobility
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Dental and vision monitoring
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Pain management
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Behavioral or cognitive changes
We’re Here for Every Stage
After the exam, we’ll go over all findings with you and customize a plan for your dog’s health. Whether it’s supplements, diet adjustments, or lifestyle changes, we’ll guide you every step of the way.