The Golden Years - A guide to caring for aging pets

At Gippsland Veterinary Group, we’re committed to providing older pets with the very best care to help maintain their quality of life in their senior years. As beloved members of our families, they deserve to live free from pain, with the best medical and nutritional support.

As pets age, mobility issues often become more noticeable. They may become stiff, sore after rest, or less willing to move around. These signs are often mistaken for “just getting old,” but can be related to pain, arthritis, or other manageable conditions. There’s so much we can do to improve their comfort and enjoyment of life.

That’s why regular veterinary check-ups are essential - ideally every six months. These visits are important for detecting emerging health issues early, allowing for timely intervention. If your pet has a diagnosed condition, more frequent monitoring may be recommended to guide treatment and track progress.

Routine check-ups include a thorough clinical examination and may involve a blood test to assess your pet’s overall health. Changes in blood results can indicate early signs of disease and help guide appropriate management. Bloodwork also helps us select safe, tailored medications for each individual pet.

For pets struggling with mobility, further diagnostics - like x-rays or joint assessments—may be needed to accurately diagnose the cause of pain and build a personalised treatment plan. There are a variety of arthritis management options, from lifestyle changes to medications, depending on the diagnosis.

It’s important not to overlook subtle signs of ageing. We often hear “they’re just slowing down,” but these changes can be linked to discomfort or illness. With the right care, many senior pets can enjoy a longer, happier life.

Older pets deserve special care, and we’re here to help them thrive in their golden years.