Senior Pet Wellness | Bethel Pet Hospital
As pets age, their needs change—and so should their care. What once worked for your energetic puppy or playful kitten may no longer be enough to keep them comfortable and healthy in their golden years. At Bethel Pet Hospital, we’re passionate about supporting senior pets and their families with compassionate, tailored care that promotes a longer, more fulfilling life.
While every pet ages differently, most dogs and cats are considered seniors by the time they reach seven years old. Large breed dogs may enter their senior years even earlier, while smaller breeds and cats may not show signs of aging until later. Regardless of when the transition occurs, it’s important to recognize the changes and adjust your pet’s care plan accordingly.
One of the most common signs of aging is a decrease in activity. Your once-energetic dog might take shorter walks, or your cat might nap more than usual. While some slowdown is natural, it can also be a sign of arthritis, muscle loss, or other underlying health concerns. Other signs of aging include changes in appetite or weight, cloudy eyes, difficulty hearing, bad breath, or new behavior patterns such as confusion or anxiety.
During senior wellness exams, our veterinarians take a proactive approach to evaluating these changes. We perform a thorough physical exam, assess your pet’s mobility, check for dental disease, and recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork or urinalysis to catch early signs of illness. These exams also give us a chance to discuss any concerns you’ve noticed at home and recommend adjustments to diet, exercise, or medications as needed.
Preventive care is especially important for older pets. Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are more common in senior pets—but many are manageable when caught early. Regular monitoring and routine wellness visits every six months can help us stay ahead of these changes and keep your pet feeling their best.
Comfort is another key focus in senior pet care. Whether your pet has arthritis, dental disease, or declining vision, we can recommend a range of treatments to reduce pain and improve their quality of life. This may include anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, laser therapy, or even small lifestyle changes like orthopedic bedding or ramps for easier mobility.
At Bethel Pet Hospital, we also recognize the emotional side of caring for an aging pet. It can be hard to watch them slow down, but our team is here to guide you with honesty, compassion, and clear communication. From early support to end-of-life care, we’re your partner through every stage.
If your pet is entering their senior years, now is the perfect time to schedule a wellness exam. Contact us at (786) 369-5513 or visit us at 15072 SW 72nd Street,Miami, FL 33193. Let us help you create a care plan that meets their changing needs while celebrating the love and life you share. Because growing older doesn’t mean giving up—it means giving them even more care, comfort, and connection.
