476 Myrtle Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11205 US

(718) 623-3999

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Senior Pet Care

Senior Pet Care

Our pets need quality veterinary care throughout their lives, but we often tend to concentrate our efforts most toward keeping our animals well in the beginning and end of their life-span. But, puppy and kitten care and senior pet care are very different. Pet owners need to understand when their pet is showing signs of aging and may need to take specific actions to ensure that they have the type of care best suited to their needs. At Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn, we understand just how important senior pets are to your family and work with you to give your pets the best quality of life at every stage.

dog owners

Expected Pet Life Expectancy

If you have a rambunctious puppy or kitten, it may seem as if they will live forever, but unfortunately that isn't true. The expected life-span for a dog can vary greatly depending on the breed, but generally speaking, large dogs live an average of 8 years, and small dogs live an average of 13 years. Indoor cats live 12-18 years, and outside cats have a life expectancy of under 5 years. 

Steps to Maximize Your Pet's Life

There are many things a pet owner can do to give their pet the best chance at a long life. Some of these include:

  • Regular care from a veterinarian
  • A quality diet and exercise
  • Spaying or neutering your pet

Conditions Common in Older Pets

Dogs are usually considered to be entering their senior years when they are 7-9 years old, and cats are considered seniors at age 11. Senior pets are at higher risk for age related conditions including arthritis, cancer, heart disease, thyroid problems, and diabetes. Getting older doesn't mean that these conditions are inevitable, just that pet owners and veterinarians need to be more aware of potential red flags, including:

  • Weight gain or loss
  • Appetite loss
  • Lumps and bumps
  • Breathing problems
  • Difficulty with stairs or jumping
  • Bad breath
  • Seizures
  • Disorientation

If any of these symptoms are present in your older pet, our veterinarian may ask to perform more tests to assure that your pet gets the treatment they need. 

Doing Your Part for Senior Pet Care

When pets reach the senior life stage, vets like to see them twice a year rather than once in order to stay one step ahead of potential problems. It is also during this time that a pet owner's role becomes increasingly important as well. At times, older dogs and cats may require a special diet that addresses medical conditions such as thyroid disease, food sensitivities, or other issues. Our veterinarian can help you develop the right nutrition plan for your pet. 

Let Us Provide Veterinary Care for Your Aging Pet

If your pet is in their senior years and needs professional care, we can help. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, contact Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn, NY, at (718) 623-3999.

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Office Hours

Monday:

10:30 am-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

10:30 am-5:30 pm

Wednesday:

10:30 am-5:30 pm

Thursday:

Closed

Friday:

10:30 am-5:30 pm

Saturday:

10:30 am-5:30 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Phone: (718) 623-3999
476 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11205, US


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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Roxy and i loved our experience with Clinton hill, and our doctor was amazing! She explained everything and answered all my questions. I highly recommend this vet clinic!"
    Amanda Hodge
  • "Always excellent professional care. Staff are empathetic towards pets and pet parents. I highly recommend this clinic. My dogs have been under care there for the past eight years."
    Frances Haile
  • "I wish there was a way to give 10 stars. It was the absolute best experience for us and our cats. The guy it the front desk I’m so sorry I forgot your name but he was extremely patient, thorough and took the time to answer every question we had. The doctor was caring and extremely knowledgeable about cats. It was the best experience 10 stars!"
    Brian Bee
  • "This place specializes in creating great relationships with owners and pets. I've been with Dr. Pamela Dendtler since 2003 ! Awesome care and service."
    Diedre Yvonne Gary
  • "To Dr Dendtler and Staff, I cant begin to tell you how impressed I am with the loving care you have given to my cat Baxter, before and after the much needed surgery. Baxter is so pleased with the outcome; he goes around purring all day."
    Thanks again. -Estelle P.
  • "Dear Dr. Dendtler, You were very thorough and caring in treating Buddy. You explained clearly how to protect my dog. I have been to many clinics but you are the best. You were very professional and compassionate. Buddy and I are very grateful. Thanks ever so much to you and your staff."
    John L.
  • "Hi Dr Dendtler, Thank you so very much for fixing my eye. I can see clearly now…I can see all obstacles in my way! Love Vernell R"
    Vernell R.

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