As the weather warms across Calgary, spring is an ideal time to focus on the health and comfort of your senior dog or cat. Older pets have unique needs that shift with the seasons, and a proactive approach to senior pet wellness can make a meaningful difference in their quality of life. At Bowness Animal Hospital, Dr. Dhothar works with families throughout Bowness, Montgomery, Silver Springs, and the surrounding NW Calgary communities to keep senior pets comfortable, active, and well-supported through every stage of life.
When Is a Pet Considered Senior?
Most dogs are considered senior between 7 and 10 years of age, depending on breed and size. Larger breeds tend to age faster and may enter their senior years earlier. Cats are generally considered senior around 10 to 12 years of age. Once a pet reaches senior status, their health needs change. Annual wellness exams may need to shift to semi-annual visits, and preventive screening becomes more important for catching issues early. Our team can help you determine the right wellness schedule for your pet’s breed, size, and health history.
Spring Wellness Exams for Senior Pets
Spring is an excellent time to schedule a comprehensive wellness exam for your senior pet. After a long Calgary winter with reduced activity, many age-related changes can become more noticeable as your pet starts moving more. A senior wellness exam at Bowness Animal Hospital includes a thorough physical assessment, bloodwork to evaluate kidney function, liver health, thyroid levels, and blood sugar, urinalysis, and digital imaging if indicated. With over 30 years of experience in small animal internal medicine, Dr. Dhothar is skilled at identifying subtle changes that may signal early-stage conditions.
Mobility and Joint Support
Arthritis and joint stiffness are among the most common concerns in senior pets, and Calgary’s cold winters can make these issues more pronounced. You may notice your dog is slower to rise, reluctant to climb stairs, or less enthusiastic about walks. Cats may stop jumping to favourite perches or have difficulty using the litter box. Spring is a good time to reassess your pet’s mobility and joint health. Options for support include weight management, controlled low-impact exercise, joint supplements, and in some cases prescription medications. The flat, gentle paths through Bowness Park and along the Bow River pathway are excellent choices for shorter walks with senior dogs who benefit from consistent movement without steep terrain.
Nutrition for Aging Pets
As pets age, their nutritional requirements change. Senior dogs and cats often need diets with adjusted protein levels, added joint-support nutrients, and modified calorie content to maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight places additional stress on joints and can worsen conditions such as arthritis and heart disease. Our nutrition counseling service helps families select appropriate diets for their senior pet’s specific needs. Dr. Dhothar can evaluate your pet’s body condition and recommend dietary adjustments as part of a comprehensive wellness plan. Our online product store also carries veterinary-recommended diets for senior pets.
Dental Health in Senior Pets
Dental disease is one of the most common and often overlooked health concerns in older pets. Tartar buildup, gum inflammation, loose teeth, and oral infections can cause significant pain and affect overall health. Senior pets are especially vulnerable because years of plaque accumulation can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream. Spring is an ideal time to schedule a dental assessment as part of your pet’s wellness routine. Bowness Animal Hospital offers professional dental cleanings, dental X-rays, and extractions when needed, with full anaesthetic monitoring and our positive, force-free approach to reduce stress for older patients.
Keeping Senior Pets Comfortable at Home
Small changes at home can make a big difference for aging pets. Provide orthopaedic bedding in warm, draft-free areas – especially important in Calgary where spring nights can still be cold. For senior cats, consider a litter box with lower sides for easier access. Ramps or steps can help dogs who struggle with furniture or vehicles. Keep food and water dishes at a comfortable height. Our medical grooming service is available for pets who need gentle, veterinary-supervised grooming care with sedation if needed.
Scheduling a Senior Wellness Visit
Bowness Animal Hospital is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM. To book a senior wellness exam for your dog or cat, call us at (587) 391-3911 or book online. Dr. Dhothar’s honest, transparent approach means you will receive clear information about your pet’s health status and a practical plan for ongoing care. Every senior pet deserves thoughtful, compassionate support.
| Is your senior pet due for a spring wellness exam? Call Bowness Animal Hospital at (587) 391-3911 to schedule. Mon-Fri 9 AM to 7 PM | Sat 9 AM to 5 PM | Bowness, NW Calgary. |
| FAQ |
Q: How often should senior pets visit the veterinarian?
A: Senior pets benefit from wellness exams every six months rather than once a year. Semi-annual visits allow the veterinary team to monitor age-related changes closely and catch emerging conditions early, when they are easier to manage.
Q: What are the signs that my senior pet may have arthritis?
A: Common signs include reluctance to climb stairs or jump, stiffness after rest, slowing down on walks, limping, and changes in behaviour such as increased irritability or withdrawal. In cats, reduced jumping and difficulty using the litter box are also indicators. A veterinary assessment can confirm the diagnosis and guide a management plan.
Q: Does Bowness Animal Hospital offer dental care for senior pets?
A: Yes. We provide professional dental cleanings, dental X-rays, and extractions with full anaesthetic monitoring. Dr. Dhothar tailors the anaesthetic protocol to each senior patient’s health status, and our positive, force-free approach ensures minimal stress throughout the procedure.
| This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet’s health. If you have concerns, contact Bowness Animal Hospital at (587) 391-3911. |