As pets move into the senior phase of life, they experience changes that are very similar to aging humans. Diseases and conditions that are commonly known to affect older people also affect our canine and feline companions such as kidney disease, heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid conditions, etc. Studies reveal that as many as 23% of senior pets which appear healthy upon physical examination have an underlying disease. Once symptoms do appear, the conditions may be too far advanced to treat in an efficient and cost effective manner. However, if caught early, the progression of some "incurable" diseases can be slowed greatly, which can dramatically improve the quality and quantity of your pet's life.

If your pet is 7 years of age or older, we usually consider him or her to be a senior.

What can be done to see if my senior pet is healthy?
A senior screening panel, offered from Mayfair Animal Hospital, includes a physical examination and a series of laboratory tests that can detect the onset of diseases and conditions at an earlier stage, when treatment and prevention are most effective and more affordable. Senior screening also helps establish normal baseline values for your pet, creating a point of comparison for the future.

My pet seems to be in perfect health and does not act sick. Why should I perform the Senior Screening Panel?
Although your pet might seem healthy, many pets with underlying health problems may not present symptoms until they become seriously ill. A fact to consider: a pet can have severe kidney disease and not show any outward signs until 60-70% of the kidney function is affected. If caught early, sometimes small changes in your pet's lifestyle (such as diet, exercise or fluid intake) are all it takes to dramatically increase your pet's quality of life and prolong the progression of its disease.

What is involved with a Senior Screening Panel?

• Physical Exam - an important part of the senior care program. Your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical exam to asses for any abnormalities.
• Blood Chemistry tests - will measure levels of various substances in the blood and aid in diagnosing common diseases such as diabetes, liver and kidney disease.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) - will provide a detailed look at the different blood cells and help the veterinarian diagnose anemia, infection or dehydration.
• Thyroid Screen (commonly referred to as a T4) - will help diagnose thyroid disease.
• Urinalysis - will give information on kidney function, rule out most urinary tract infections, aid in the diagnosis of diabetes and can alert the veterinarian to certain abnormalities that could lead to kidney or bladder stones.

How much does it cost?
The cost for this package is very affordable. Please speak to a staff member for price information.

Our Senior Screening Program is an invaluable tool which allows you to be proactive in maintaining your pet's health and happiness. Please contact our office if you have any further questions.