Veterinary care center in Lakewood, CA offers tips for senior pet care

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Veterinary Care Center in Lakewood CA Area
Just like people, pets have different needs as they age. A senior pet requires different care and consideration than a young animal. Regular appointments with a veterinary doctor near me is an important part of senior pet health. Located in Lakewood, CA, Bloomfield Animal Hospital is a comprehensive veterinary care center for pets of all ages, including aging animals.

Genetics, nutrition, and environment play a role in how quickly a pet ages. Cats are often considered seniors from ages 11 to 14. Larger dogs age more quickly than smaller dogs. Dogs may be considered seniors as early as 7 years old.

Tips for senior pet care

When it comes to aging pets, proper health care is crucial. Keep your aging pet healthy and prolong his/her life with a few general tips.
  • Visit a veterinary care center regularly. Regular check-ups are important for all pets, but they become even more important as your pet ages. Examinations are usually scheduled every six months. This is because the symptoms of age-related diseases can be subtle or easy to miss. With regular, routine examinations and tests, your veterinarian and animal hospital team can establish a baseline for your pet.
  • Check your pet’s food. Older pets are often less active meaning they burn fewer calories. Being overweight adds stress to their joints and can lead to additional diseases. Specific foods, supplements, or treats may be recommended.
  • Keep your pet active. Exercise is important for pets, not only physically but also mentally. Exercise keeps your pet at a healthy weight and slows the degeneration of the joints from arthritis. Exploring new environments also stimulates their minds and senses.

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  • Maintain your pet’s oral hygiene. Regularly clear your pet’s teeth and have the veterinary doctor assess the teeth and gums for signs of decay or disease. Oral health problems can be painful and may cause additional medical conditions.
  • Keep your pet safe. Senior pets often start to lose their hearing, sight, and balance. If you notice changes in your pet’s behavior, check and modify your home for safety.
  • Make your home accessible. Older animals, especially those with arthritis, cannot move around as easily as younger pets. Consider adding ramps so your pet can get up on the bed. Make the litter box easily accessible.
  • Stimulate your pet’s mind. Just because your pet’s body may be slowing down does not mean his/her mind is. Teach your pet new tricks. Give him/her puzzle bowls to find treats or food. Keep plenty of toys around to occupy your pet. Engage in a play session daily to have one-on-one time and to stimulate your pet.
  • Groom your pet. Bathing and brushing are important for pets of all ages. Grooming keeps an animal’s coat healthy. Bathing keeps your pet feeling and smelling better. It gets rid of allergens that may collect in the fur and removes potential fleas. Additionally, it is relaxing and strengthens the owner-companion bond.

For a veterinary doctor or veterinary care center near me, contact Bloomfield Animal Hospital in Lakewood, CA today. Call (562) 383-7788.
Image of Dr Josh Arambulo
Bloomfield Animal Hospital is a trusted name in pets’ preventive, medical, surgical, and emergency care in Lakewood, CA. With a 30-year history as a family-owned pet clinic, it’s reputed for providing modern services in a warm, friendly environment. It’s one of the few veterinary hospitals to be AAHA-accredited.

Dr. Jose Arambulo, owner and chief veterinarian is experienced in treating eye, ear, and skin disorders and is especially interested in internal medicine, dentistry and soft tissue surgery. The hospital also utilizes the services of board-certified veterinarians, Dr. Ann Reed – Radiologist, and Dr. Fred Brewer – Cardiologist.