Compassionate Senior Pet Care at Animal Hospital Southwest

At Animal Hospital Southwest in Fort Worth, we know that your senior pet is more than just a companion—they’re family. As pets grow older, their needs evolve, and so should the care they receive. Whether you’re noticing subtle changes or managing a chronic condition, our team is here to guide you with proactive, personalized, and compassionate care every step of the way.

Not sure what to expect as your pet ages? Explore the AVMA’s Senior Pet Care guide to better understand what’s normal—and what may signal a deeper health issue.

Recognizing the Signs of Aging in Pets

Just like people, aging pets may experience gradual shifts in behavior, mobility, and health. Common signs of aging include:

  • Slower movement or reluctance to jump
  • Increased stiffness or limping
  • Cloudy eyes or reduced hearing
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • House soiling or loss of litter box habits
  • Confusion, anxiety, or altered sleep patterns

These signs may indicate underlying issues such as osteoarthritis, kidney disease, or cognitive dysfunction. Identifying changes early gives us the best chance to slow progression and ease discomfort. To learn more, visit Senior Status: Understanding Your Senior Pet’s Life Stage.

Personalized Wellness Plans for Senior Dogs and Cats

No two pets age the same way—which is why we create custom wellness plans tailored to your pet’s:

  • Age and breed-specific risks
  • Activity levels
  • Current health conditions
  • Lifestyle and diet

Wellness visits may include bloodwork, urinalysis, weight management support, mobility screenings, and tailored nutritional recommendations. These checkups allow us to catch issues early—before they impact quality of life.

See Zoetis Petcare’s guide to preventive testing for a helpful overview of diagnostics to expect during senior visits.

Advanced Solutions for Mobility and Pain Management

Mobility challenges are one of the most common issues we address in senior pets. From joint pain to muscle loss, these changes can make even basic activities difficult.

Injectable Therapies: Librela & Solensia

We offer innovative, targeted pain relief for arthritis:

These once-monthly injections block the nerve growth factor (NGF) that drives chronic pain—allowing pets to move more comfortably without daily medications.

To explore more tips, check out these arthritis-friendly home adjustments.

Assistive Devices and Home Modifications

Support your pet’s comfort with:

  • Ramps and pet stairs
  • Orthopedic beds
  • Non-slip rugs
  • Harnesses or slings for stability

Browse Canine Arthritis Management’s assistive device recommendations for more ideas.

Supporting Cognitive and Emotional Health

Aging can also affect your pet’s brain. If your senior dog seems disoriented or your cat starts vocalizing at night, it may be more than aging—it could be cognitive dysfunction. For a deeper understanding, visit Cornell University’s resource on canine cognitive dysfunction.

Our team can help with:

  • Behavioral support
  • Environmental modifications
  • Supplements or medications to enhance cognitive function
  • Enrichment routines to keep your pet mentally stimulated

Nutritional Guidance for Senior Pets

A balanced, age-appropriate diet can help manage:

  • Weight and joint strain
  • Gastrointestinal health
  • Energy levels
  • Cognitive clarity

We offer nutritional counseling and can recommend therapeutic diets or supplements. Learn more about feeding senior dogs from Purina’s senior supplement guide.

The Role of Preventative Care in Aging Pets

Proactive care helps us detect and manage age-related diseases before they progress. Our senior care services often include:

  • Full blood panels
  • Urinalysis and blood pressure monitoring
  • X-rays or ultrasound to check for arthritis or organ changes
  • Dental evaluations and cleanings to reduce infection risk

Dental health matters more than you think. Periodontal disease can cause pain, systemic infections, and even worsen heart and kidney disease. Read AAHA’s guide to supporting your senior pet to learn more.

How You Can Support Your Senior Pet at Home

Small daily changes can have a big impact:

  • Maintain a consistent routine
  • Provide low-impact exercise like short walks
  • Offer soft surfaces for resting and traction
  • Use puzzles or training games to keep their mind active

And most importantly—keep observing. Subtle changes in movement, mood, or appetite may be early signs of discomfort. The AAHA’s guide to common pain signs in pets can help you recognize them early.

Partnering With Your Veterinary Team

Open communication is the cornerstone of great senior pet care. Our team is here to answer questions, adjust treatment plans, and support your pet’s journey through their golden years.

When you’re ready to schedule an appointment, reach out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Pet Care

How often should my senior pet see the vet?
 At least twice a year. Senior pets age more rapidly, and frequent visits help detect issues early.

Can I help prevent arthritis in my pet?
 You can’t always prevent it, but keeping your pet lean, active, and on appropriate supplements may delay onset and reduce severity.

Is cognitive decline treatable?
 While not curable, cognitive dysfunction can often be managed through medication, enrichment, and diet.

What signs of pain should I look for?
 Limping, restlessness, reluctance to play, changes in sleep patterns, or even vocalization. Don’t assume it’s “just old age.”

Helping Your Pet Age Gracefully

Aging is natural—but suffering is not. With proactive care, appropriate treatments, and a supportive home environment, senior pets can remain happy, engaged, and comfortable for years to come.

At Animal Hospital Southwest, we’re honored to help your pet age with grace and dignity.