Dogs and cats over 7 years old are considered seniors and, just like humans, they’re more prone to age-related conditions. Regular health checks allow us to detect and manage problems early—before they become painful or life-threatening.

Common signs your senior pet may need a check-up:

• Increased thirst or urination

• Changes in weight

• Mobility issues or joint stiffness

• Changes in behaviour or appetite

What Do We Check During a Senior Health Exam?

Our veterinarians perform a comprehensive physical examination, including:

• Eyes, ears, skin, joints, mouth, and teeth

• Heart and lung auscultation

• Weight and body condition assessment

• Behaviour and lifestyle discussion

We may also recommend:

• Annual senior bloodwork - to assess kidney, liver, thyroid, and metabolic health

• Urine testing - to detect kidney disease, diabetes, or infections

• Blood pressure and eye pressure - to detect early signs of heart disease, glaucoma, or high blood pressure

• Eye pressure testing helps detect glaucoma or uveitis, which can cause irreversible blindness if untreated.

• Blood pressure testing identifies hypertension, which is common in senior cats and dogs and can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain.

Both are non-invasive pain-free procedures that give our vets valuable information about your pet's health. 

Arthritis is common in older dogs and cats and can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. With the right treatment—such as arthritis injections, laser therapy, joint supplements, and weight management—your pet can enjoy a more comfortable, active life.

Routine blood and urine tests:

• Help detect conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, liver issues, and infections

• Establish baseline values for your pet’s normal health

• Allow for early intervention and better treatment outcomes

When detected early, many chronic diseases can be managed effectively, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment that helps reduce pain and inflammation while speeding up healing in pets with arthritis or other chronic conditions.

How Does It Work?

Laser therapy uses low-level light energy to penetrate tissues and stimulate cell function—a process known as photobiomodulation. This encourages:

• Reduced inflammation

• Increased blood flow

• Accelerated tissue repair

• Natural pain relief

It’s completely painless and most pets find it soothing and relaxing—some even fall asleep during treatment!

Conditions We Treat with Laser Therapy

• Arthritis & joint pain

• Hip dysplasia

• Back pain or spinal issues

• Post-operative healing

• Soft tissue injuries

• Chronic wounds or skin conditions

Why We Recommend It for Senior Pets

Older pets with arthritis often can’t tolerate certain medications due to kidney, liver, or stomach sensitivities. Laser therapy offers a gentle and effective alternative that:

• Improves mobility

• Relieves chronic pain

• Enhances quality of life

• Has no side effects

It can be used on its own or alongside other treatments like arthritis injections, supplements, or medications for even better results.