Cognitive dysfunction of dogs and cats– dx and current tx options

Behavior disorders are such a pain– how pain contributes to behavior and current tx options from a behavioral perspective

You cant teach an old dog new tricks– Or can you? Environmental and behavior modifications for senior pets

Blind and deaf pets– how to help them cope

When generations collide- introducing the new puppy or kitten to the geriatric household

The aging heart – a staged approach to canine heart disease/CHF.

The aging heart – a staged approach to feline cardiomyopathy/CHF.

Early chronic kidney disease – how to tell your patient has CKD and what to do  about it now.

Advanced chronic kidney disease – treatments that actually improve quality of life with CKD.

Cardiorenal Syndrome – now what?

Aging and Health Span

As the pet population continues to get more ‘gray’, with care that can extend the lifespan of our patients, we have to pay closer attention to issue that can arrive with these mature, senior and geriatric pets. Certainly, monitoring these individuals for medical parameters that can indicate a disease state is crucial, as early detection of any problem, from cancer to diabetes, can be helpful to the outcome of treatment.

Dentistry in Senior Cats

Cats display several unique conditions when it comes to the oral cavity, including tooth resorption and stomatitis.  Some of these conditions are found in younger cats but can confound health in senior patients. Dental care can be a major reason to continue overall care in senior cats.

Dentistry in Senior Dogs

Senior and geriatric patients have a higher incidence of periodontal disease, that will likely impact their systemic health. Full evaluation of their health status may lead to adjustments in anesthetic protocols and management, but taking care of their oral health is more important at this stage of life for your patients. Specific conditions seen in senior dogs will be discussed.

Oral Tumors

With the advancing years of our patients comes the increased incidence of oral tumors. Early detection of oral tumors can be challenging because they are often not as obvious as more visible tumors. Regular dental care, including home care and professional care, can help increase the potential for detecting any abnormality early in its development, thus improving the chances for treatment.

Senior Comfort and Mobility

Mobility is a key factor in maintaining the quality of life of senior and geriatric pets. From frailty and muscle weakness to neurological issues, a decline in mobility impacts their – and their owners’ – lives. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common issues with senior pets, so early detection and appropriate management is critical. Other neurological and skeletal issues may affect these special patients as well. Standard therapies using NSAIDS and supplements, weight management and exercise can be augmented by physical modalities from laser therapy, pulsed electromagnetic fields and shock (acoustic) wave therapy. Environmental management with non-slid runners, ramps for furniture and vehicles, elevated food bowls and orthopedic bedding can also help.

Managing Oral Pain and Inflammation

Oral and dental diseases, as well as any surgical intervention, can cause discomfort and inflammation in the oral cavity. From periodontal disease and fractured teeth to tooth resorption and even chronic pain, resolution of these issues can improve the quality of life of our patients. Management of oral and dental disease, as well as a comprehensive, multi-modal analgesic protocol can keep our patients comfortable and return them to health and function through optimal healing.