Max’s Corner
Hello and welcome to my newsletter, where I will keep you up to date on Pets on Broadway’s latest and our monthly specials. During the months of September and October we dedicate special attention to our senior pets' health by offering a thorough wellness package that consists of:
1. An Exam
Our vets will start by asking you questions about your pets history:
- Are their movements slower? Aside from the normal aging process, this could be a sign of arthritis or pain. Medications and/or acupuncture will reduce pain and ease discomfort.
- Is there any change in their weight (loss or gain) or appetite? Dogs and cats should be fed a diet appropriate for their age and health conditions.
- Have you noticed any sight loss or hearing loss? Pets may develop cataracts with aging, but it could also be a sign of diabetes.
- Do they have bad breath? Good dental care is important not only for teeth and gums, but for overall health as well.
- Has there been any change in their urine output and thirst? Increased urination and water intake may be signs of diabetes or kidney problems. Inappropriate urination (cats urinating outside the litter box, dogs leaking urine) can happen as a result of infection or loss of sphincter control.
- Have you noticed any behavioral changes? Change in sleeping patterns (sleeping more during the day, pacing and wandering through the house at night, disorientation) are signs of Canine cognitive dysfunction, very similar to human Alzheimer’s disease, and there is treatment available to ease this condition.
- Our vets will also do a whole body check for abnormal bumps and lumps, which can be benign cysts or more serious tumors.
2. Complete Bloodwork
These blood tests will show any underlying blood disorders (anemia, infections) and determine the function levels of liver, kidneys and pancreas.
3. Thyroid Function Testing
The thyroid gland plays an important role in regulating the body’s metabolism and calcium balance.
4. Blood Pressure Measurement
It determines how the heart pumps, the elasticity of the arteries, and the blood thickness.
5. Urine Analysis
It measures the concentration of urine, and detects bacteria or crystals, which may lead to stone formation.
6. Chest Radiograph
It will show if the heart has the appropriate size and if there are any abnormal masses or excess fluid in the chest.
We believe that early diagnostic testing is important to identify disorders before clinical signs are evident, and to monitor preexisting health conditions in order to provide your pet with a longer, more comfortable life.
Max
