Getting old can be tough. Just like us, pets start to slow down and sometimes have trouble doing things they used to do with ease, like jumping, playing fetch, or even walking on tile floors without their paws sliding out underneath them. So if your senior pet starts to suffer from pain, mobility problems, or any other medical issue or even if they’re younger, but have a serious medical problem we can help you look for early signs of discomfort, and create a plan to keep them as comfortable as possible. Often this involves supplements and some changes at home to make it easier for your pet to get around, as well as a plan for pain medications for pets who can benefit from them. By using the right combination of treatments, often your pet can have more “good days,” and the two of you can enjoy some more quality time together.

Sometimes, it’s hard to decide, especially if your pet alternates between “good” and “bad” days. You may find it helpful to bring your pet for a consultation. Our veterinarians can do a physical exam to look for signs of pain that might not otherwise be obvious (often, dogs and cats are good at hiding their discomfort), and also discuss how your pet is doing at home. We’ll give you an honest assessment, and then give you the information you need to make an informed decision about what’s right for your pet. You might also find it helpful to keep a journal to note your pet’s good and bad days and notice if they are getting worse over time.

If you have any questions about euthanasia, end-of-life care, or quality of life, or if you want to schedule a consult for your pet, give us a call.