Your pet ages faster than you do, with factors such as species, breed, and size all contributing to the rate at which it happens. As your pet ages, his or her medical and dietary needs change. Increasing the frequency of health exams, adjusting the diet, and implementing a few simple changes to make him or her more comfortable will have your pet entering the senior years happy and healthy.
Senior Nutrition
As your pet ages, their dietary needs may change. Hills Science and Prescription Diet foods are formulated to meet your senior pet’s nutritional needs. Take the opportunity during your pet’s health appointments to talk with our staff about any changes that might be necessary for your senior pet.
Health Exam Frequency
Annual health exams are sufficient for your pet during the puppy, kitten, and adult stages. As they age, however, more frequent health exams are recommended, increasing the chances of identifying conditions that might require medical monitoring or dietary changes.
Conditions, such as arthritis, kidney disease, heart disease, or cataracts, can be identified early with diagnostic procedures such as blood testing, X-rays, and ultrasound. Arthritis is just as painful for your pet as it is for you. Dr. Rod can discuss various pain management options with you.
Our Pet Wellness Packages are an economical way to ensure your pet receives comprehensive health care.
Making Your Senior Pet More Comfortable
Sometimes actions speak louder than words. Simple, easy, and inexpensive changes around the house can show your pets just how much they mean to you while keeping them safe and comfortable.
- Exercise continues to be an important part of your pet’s routine. Walks and swimming are great forms of exercise for older dogs, while senior cats may enjoy things such as laser pointers, catnip, and toys to keep them active.
- Senior pets struggle to maintain their body temperature as they age. Blankets, sweaters, and warm beds will be greatly appreciated.
- Stairs and ramps may helpful in assisting your pet up onto furniture or beds.
- Keeping your pet’s mind alert by rotating toys, teaching new tricks, or letting them play with bags and boxes are all easy way to keep their minds sharp.
“Dr. Yetter’s professional & compassionate care enabled us to have Lady as a member of our family for over 17 years. Through his knowledge, extensive research, and willingness to reach out, he provided Lady with a long quality life in spite of numerous health issues. We are eternally grateful.”
— Diane & Terry Svob
“Dr. Yetter and the staff at Prairie Ridge have given excellent care to my family of pets for about 20 years. I always feel comfortable asking questions and knowing I will get complete, caring answers. Dr. Yetter researches to find the best treatment options. My cats and dog are family to me, and we trust Prairie Ridge Veterinary Clinic.”
—Janis Blout
“We are so grateful for the hard work and extra research Dr. Yetter did for our Tansy-cat to find out why she wasn’t eating. If there is a time when your most precious friend is ill and you need to trust someone to care for them, Dr. Yetter is definitely that person! He went above and beyond to do everything he could to save our beautiful Tansy.”
— Tom & Bev Berberett
“My pets have been patients of Dr. Yetter and his great staff for many years, and I have always been grateful for their efficiency and helpfulness. Having good care right here in Havana is a big plus!”
— Jan McFarlin
“I began to bring in my labs into PRVC when I started working there, and was happy to have such a caring and knowledgeable doctor to take care of two of my best friends. It always amazes me just how much care goes into each and every animal, let alone the perseverance of Dr. Yetter and staff (I should call them family) in working out how to treat each and every problem.”
— Chris Johnson