Geriatric Care in Jackson, MI
Welcome to Arbor Hills Veterinary Clinic, where Dr. Miller and our team help senior dogs and cats in Jackson, MI stay healthy and comfortable through their golden years.
Understanding Geriatric Care
Senior pets need routine veterinary care and early identification of health issues to stay healthy as they age. Small to medium dogs and cats are generally considered seniors at age 7. Larger breeds of dog usually have shorter life spans, so they are considered seniors by about age 6.
Because of advances in veterinary care and better diets, pets are living longer than ever. That is something to celebrate! It also means more age-related conditions to watch for, which is why regular wellness exams matter even when your senior pet seems perfectly healthy.
What to Expect During a Senior Wellness Visit
Senior visits look a little deeper than a routine checkup, because your pet’s health can change faster with age.
A Thorough Physical Exam
Dr. Miller checks your pet from nose to tail, paying close attention to weight, joints, heart, eyes, ears and teeth.
Your Observations
Changes are easy to miss when they happen slowly. We ask about appetite, thirst, energy, sleep, bathroom habits and behavior, since these clues help us spot problems early.
Screening Tests
Senior pets are more prone to problems such as kidney, heart and joint disease, so Dr. Miller may recommend bloodwork or other tests. Source: AAHA
A Plan for Home
We talk through what we found and build a plan with you, with cost in mind. It may include diet changes, pain management or simple changes that make home easier.
Why Geriatric Care is Important for Your Pet
Diligent routine care can help extend your pet’s life and good health as they age. When we find problems early, we can often manage them more easily.
Early Detection
Regular senior exams help us find emerging health issues and start treatment while they are easier to manage.
Comfort and Mobility
Some slowing down is part of aging, but it can also be a sign of pain or illness that can be treated.
More Good Days Together
Proactive care helps your senior pet stay active and comfortable, so you can enjoy your time together.
Signs Your Senior Pet May Need a Checkup
Cornell’s Feline Health Center lists signs such as increased thirst, weight loss and a poor appetite, and stiff joints can make it hard for an older pet to reach food, water or the litter box. Source: Cornell Feline Health Center Watch for changes like these in your older dog or cat:
- Drinking or urinating more than usual
- Weight loss or a change in appetite
- Stiffness or trouble with stairs and jumping
- Trouble reaching food, water or the litter box
- Changes in sleep, energy or behavior
If you notice changes in energy, appetite, sleep or behavior, mention them at your pet’s next visit or give us a call.
How Often Should Your Senior Pet See the Veterinarian?
The ASPCA recommends that senior pets see a veterinarian at least twice a year, and more often if they’re being treated for a health condition. Source: ASPCA The AAHA also recommends exams every six months for seniors. Source: AAHA Dr. Miller will suggest a schedule that fits your pet’s health.
Practice Highlights
Arbor Hills Veterinary Clinic is dedicated to proactive, compassionate care for senior pets. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proactive medicine focused on early detection
- Fear Free certified veterinarian, Dr. Laura Miller
- Clear communication and client education at every step
- Treatment plans made with you, with cost in mind
- Care kept local, with specialist referrals only when truly needed
- ADA-accessible facility with convenient parking
- Serving Jackson and surrounding communities
Schedule Your Pet's Senior Wellness Appointment Today
Help your senior pet stay healthy and comfortable with regular care from Dr. Miller and our team. Call us at (517) 750-3838 or visit us at 4110 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI 49201-9306, near the M-60 and Spring Arbor Rd intersection. Our Jackson clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5:30pm.
Common questions about Geriatric Care
Still wondering about something? Give us a call and we'll talk it through.
Why is senior pet care important?
Senior pets are more prone to problems such as kidney, heart and joint disease, and their health can change faster. Regular senior visits help us find problems early, while they are easier to manage, and keep your pet comfortable as they age.
How much does a senior wellness visit cost and how long does it take?
The cost and length of a senior visit depend on your pet’s needs and any bloodwork or other tests Dr. Miller recommends. Dr. Miller will go over a treatment plan and estimate with you before we begin. We accept cash, check, all credit cards, debit, text to pay and tap to pay, as well as CareCredit and pet insurance plans including Nationwide, Lemonade and Pumpkin. For a personalized estimate, call (517) 750-3838.
How should I prepare for my senior pet’s visit, and how can I keep them comfortable at home?
Bring a list of your pet’s medications and supplements and any changes you’ve noticed. At home, soft bedding, rugs on slippery floors, ramps or steps to favorite spots, and food, water and litter boxes that are easy to reach can all help. Gentle, regular exercise keeps joints moving too.
What conditions does geriatric care help find?
Senior pets are typically prone to urinary tract disease, kidney disease, cancer, heart disease, liver disease, senility, joint or bone disorders, blindness and hearing loss, weakness and diabetes. Regular exams help us watch for these as your pet ages.
How do I schedule a senior wellness visit and what are your hours?
To schedule a senior wellness visit, call (517) 750-3838 or visit us at 4110 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI 49201-9306. We’re open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5:30pm.
Have a question? We're glad to help.
Call us or request an appointment online, and our team will take it from there.
