Senior Pet Care
When Is a Pet Considered a Senior?
- 7 years for medium to large breed dogs
- 8–10 years for smaller breed dogs
- 7–10 years for cats
Our approach to senior dog care and senior cat care focuses on early detection, proactive monitoring, pain management, and personalized treatment plans. Because pets age more quickly than humans, consistent geriatric veterinary care is essential for protecting their quality of life.
Why Senior Pet Care Is So Important
- Arthritis and joint disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver dysfunction
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Thyroid imbalance
- Dental disease
- Cognitive decline
- Cancer
Many of these conditions develop gradually and without obvious symptoms in early stages. Routine senior evaluations allow us to detect disease earlier—when it is more manageable and less costly to treat.
Preventive screening is one of the most valuable tools in senior pet care.
What Does Senior Pet Care Include?
At PetCentre Animal Hospital, geriatric veterinary care is comprehensive and personalized.
Thorough Physical Examination
We assess weight, body condition, dental health, joint mobility, vision, hearing, and organ function.
Routine Laboratory Testing
Senior pets benefit from regular pet blood testing to monitor kidney function, liver enzymes, thyroid levels, and blood cell counts. Learn more about our Pet Laboratory Testing services.
Diagnostic Imaging
If symptoms warrant further investigation, digital pet X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended. Explore our Pet Digital Imaging services for more information.
Dental Health Monitoring
Dental disease becomes more common with age. Regular professional cleanings help prevent infection and pain. Visit our Pet Dental Care page to understand how oral health affects overall wellness.
Pain and Mobility Assessment
Joint stiffness and arthritis are common in senior pets. We evaluate mobility and develop targeted pain management strategies. See our Pet Pain and Chronic Illness Management page for additional support options.
Signs Your Senior Pet May Need Veterinary Attention
- Increased thirst or urination
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Changes in appetite
- Stiffness or limping
- Behavioral changes
- Confusion or disorientation
- Persistent bad breath
- Lumps or growths
- Decreased activity
Early intervention dramatically improves outcomes for many age-related conditions.
Proactive Senior Care for the Greater Manassas Community
Aging is a natural part of life, but with attentive veterinary care, senior pets can enjoy many comfortable and fulfilling years. At PetCentre Animal Hospital, our comprehensive senior pet care program combines diagnostic precision, pain management expertise, and compassionate oversight to support aging dogs and cats throughout the greater Manassas area. Through proactive monitoring and individualized treatment plans, we help pet owners make informed decisions that prioritize long-term health and quality of life.
PetCentre Animal Hospital Services
Wellness & Preventive Care
Urgent & Emergency Care
Pet Resort
Puppy & Kitten Visits
Vaccines
Allergy Management
Laboratory Testing
Digital Imaging
Sick Pet Visits
Pain & Chronic Illness Management
Health Certificates
Veterinary Surgery
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Senior Pet Care
Dental Care
Behavior & Nutritional Counseling
Laser Therapy
End-of-Life Care
Wellness & Preventive Care
Pet Resort
Veterinary Surgery
Health Certificates
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Laboratory Testing
Digital Imaging
Dental Care
Urgent & Emergency Care
Puppy & Kitten Visits
Senior Pet Care
Sick Pet Visits
Allergy Management
Vaccines
Pain & Chronic Illness Management
Behavior & Nutritional Counseling
Laser Therapy
End-of-Life Care