Caring for Senior Dogs and Cats in Amherst, NS

Older pets have a special place in a family. They have been with you through moves, new babies and long walks, and they deserve care that keeps them comfortable in their later years. At Cumberland County Animal Hospital in Amherst, Nova Scotia, we work closely with families to build a care plan around each senior pet's individual needs.

One of our clients, Diane G., shares her home with two retired and elderly German Shepherds. In her review, she wrote that at our hospital, "I feel heard as we discuss their individual needs." That is exactly the kind of care we want every senior pet to have.

Why senior pets need more frequent checkups

Pets age faster than people, so a lot can change in a short time. While we recommend a yearly wellness exam for healthy adult pets, senior pets may need to come in more often. More frequent visits help us notice changes early, when they are often easier to manage.

Your pet is weighed at every visit. For older pets, tracking weight over time is one simple way to spot changes that are worth a closer look. During each exam we also check heart rate and breathing, and look at the teeth, eyes, ears, skin and coat.

Blood work and baseline values

Many health problems in older pets are not visible from the outside. Diagnostic tests such as blood work and urinalysis help us evaluate organ function and find hidden conditions. They also give us baseline values we can compare against at future visits, so we can see trends instead of a single snapshot.

Our in-house laboratory lets us run these tests at the hospital and get results quickly. If your pet needs imaging, we also have digital x-rays on site. Learn more in our post on in-house diagnostics.

Do not overlook your senior pet's teeth

Pets cannot tell us when their mouth hurts, so dental pain often goes unnoticed. Poor oral health can cause pain, difficulty eating and even changes in behaviour. Bacteria from infected teeth can also spread to vital organs. Because many dental problems develop below the gum line, we use dental x-rays to find issues we cannot see. Read our guide to pet dental care in Amherst for signs to watch for.

New lumps and bumps

If you find a new lump on your pet, book an exam. We frequently perform soft tissue surgery to remove masses and lumps, and early detection and removal matter in case a mass is cancerous.

If your senior pet needs surgery, safety comes first. We perform a complete physical exam and pre-anesthetic tests beforehand, select anesthesia tailored to your pet's needs, monitor your pet closely throughout the procedure and continue pain management through recovery. Learn more about our surgical services.

Nutrition, activity and comfort at home

As pets age, their needs change. We provide dietary recommendations based on your pet's needs, including special diets or supplements for specific health conditions. We also offer lifestyle guidance tailored to your pet's breed, age and activity level, including exercise and mental stimulation. Changes in behaviour can be a sign that something is wrong, so let us know if you notice any.

Easier visits for older pets

Car rides can be hard on older bodies. Every Tuesday from 1 to 4pm, we offer house calls within Amherst town limits. Home visits are ideal for senior animals and pets who find it difficult to travel. We can provide wellness exams, vaccinations, medical injections, blood collection, skin and ear cytology sampling, eye checks and more at home.

If you live outside Amherst, our monthly remote clinics in Tatamagouche and quarterly remote clinics in Parrsboro may be a good fit. See our post on vet care beyond the clinic for details.

When it is time to say goodbye

Saying goodbye is one of the hardest parts of loving a pet. For those difficult goodbyes, we offer euthanasia services in the comfort and privacy of your home, for both you and your pet. Please call us when you are ready to talk. We will answer your questions and help you plan.

Common questions about senior pet care

How often should my senior pet see the vet?

Healthy adult pets should have a wellness exam once a year, but senior pets may need more frequent checkups. We will recommend a schedule based on your pet's health.

Why do you recommend blood work for older pets?

Blood work and urinalysis help us evaluate organ function, find hidden conditions and set baseline values we can track over time.

Can you see my senior pet at home?

Yes. We offer house calls every Tuesday from 1 to 4pm within Amherst town limits. Home visits are ideal for senior animals and pets who find travel difficult.

Do you offer in-home euthanasia?

Yes. We offer euthanasia in the comfort and privacy of your home. Please call the hospital at (902) 612-2520 to talk with us and book.

Book a senior pet visit in Amherst

Cumberland County Animal Hospital is a CVMA and NSVMA accredited hospital at 16 Ancestral Drive in Amherst, Nova Scotia, open Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm. To book a checkup or house call for your senior dog or cat, book an appointment or call (902) 612-2520. You can also learn more about our wellness care.