Senior Pet & Geriatric Pet care

As pets age, their needs change. We offer gentle, thorough care for senior pets — from arthritis management and weight control to monitoring kidney, heart, and cognitive health. Regular check-ups help us catch problems early, so we can keep your best friend comfortable and thriving.

🐾 Senior & Geriatric Care for Dogs and Cats in Albury–Wodonga

As pets age, their needs change. We do not consider age to be a disease. Older pets deserve the same level of comfort as all pets. We offer gentle, thorough care for senior pets — from arthritis management, lump removal, maintaining dental health and weight control to monitoring kidney, heart, and cognitive health. Regular check-ups help us catch problems early, so we can keep your best friend comfortable and thriving.

🐶🐱 About Senior Pet Care

Just like humans, pets need extra care and attention as they age. At Murray River Animal Hospital, we’re here to support your senior dog or cat with compassionate veterinary care that focuses on quality of life, comfort, and early detection of age-related conditions.

In Albury–Wodonga, we see many beloved pets living well into their senior years with the right care and support.

📅 When Is My Pet a Senior?

  • Dogs are generally considered senior around 7 years old (even earlier for larger breeds).
  • Cats are typically senior at 7–10 years old, and geriatric from around 12+ years.

Even if your pet appears healthy, subtle changes may be happening inside—which is why routine senior health checks are vital.

🩺 What’s Included in Our Senior Pet Care Program

At Murray River Animal Hospital, we tailor a comprehensive care plan for your ageing pet that may include:

✅ Full Senior Health Checks

A thorough examination to pick up early signs of disease, pain, or cognitive decline.

✅ Blood & Urine Testing

Checks for kidney disease, liver function, diabetes, anaemia, and more.

✅ Blood Pressure Monitoring

High blood pressure is common in older cats and can lead to blindness or stroke if undetected.

✅ Arthritis & Pain Management

We assess mobility and comfort, offering medications, supplements, laser therapy, or acupuncture when needed.

✅ Dental Check & Oral Health Support

Senior pets are prone to dental disease, which can affect overall health.

✅ Nutrition Advice

Senior pets often require special diets for kidney health, weight management or joint support.

✅ Behavioural & Cognitive Assessment

Monitoring for signs of cognitive decline (like confusion, restlessness, or toileting issues).

✅ Cancer Screening

Early detection of lumps or unusual changes helps improve outcomes.

🧡 Why Regular Senior Check-Ups Matter

Pets age faster than humans. A year in a pet’s life can bring about significant changes. With twice-yearly check-ups, we can:

  • Detect illness early
  • Prevent suffering
  • Adjust care as your pet’s needs evolve
  • Keep your pet active, happy, and pain-free

💬 FAQs – Caring for Senior Pets in Albury–Wodonga

Q: My pet seems fine—do they really need a senior check-up?
A: Yes! Many age-related illnesses show no visible symptoms until they’re advanced. Routine checks are key for early detection.

Q: What signs should I watch for at home?
A: Look for changes in appetite, weight, mobility, toileting habits, sleep, or behaviour. Even subtle changes matter.

Q: Can older pets still have dental procedures or surgery?
A: Yes—with proper pre-op testing and tailored anaesthetic protocols, we safely perform procedures on senior pets every week.

🏥 Supporting Albury–Wodonga’s Ageing Pet Community

At Murray River Animal Hospital, we’re honoured to care for your pet through every stage of life. Whether it’s adjusting their medication, offering mobility support, or just giving you peace of mind, we’re here for you and your senior pet.

📍 Serving families in Albury, Wodonga, Lavington, Thurgoona, and surrounds
📞 Call us today to book a Senior Wellness Check
🗓 Let’s help your furry friend enjoy their golden years in comfort and happiness.

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