Seeing a touch of gray on your pet’s chin? Are those once-clear eyes becoming a little cloudy? Bit of stiffness in what used to be a frisky gait? These are all signs your furry friend is entering the “golden” years.

When is my pet considered a senior?

Beginning around 7 years of age! Once your pet achieves senior status we recommend your pet have a wellness examination and diagnostic testing performed every 6 months as is the standard of care by the American Animal Hospital Association.

Why should I have my pet examined and screened twice a year?

Your pet is aging much faster than you. The good news is our pets are living longer than ever with advances in medicine. However, the trade-off is that pets as they age, just like their aging human companions, are more vulnerable to health problems and diseases. Many of these health problems can be prevented, controlled or treated if detected in the early phases. This is our goal with the Senior Wellness Program.

At Carolina Pets our mission is to assure a comfortable and compassionate end of life journey for our terminally ill and geriatric patients and their families by providing medical and emotional support until natural passing occurs or humane euthanasia is elected. We are here to help you create a hospice care program for your pet.

Grief for the impending loss of your pet is complicated by the need to make difficult, often painful decisions. You may ask yourself how much treatment should I pursue? At what point will treatment cause more trauma than relief? Can I provide the care needed to keep my pet comfortable? At what point, if any, should I consider euthanasia?

These are tough and complicated questions that we recognize require individual consultation. If and when you need this assistance, our veterinarians are ready to help you. We can provide you with information on your pet’s problem that may help you form your plan.