IRISH WOLFHOUND SOCIETY OF IRELAND

 

Senior Pet Healthcare Checklist

Courtesy of Harmony Animal Hospital

 

Although your veterinarian is the expert, you are the one who cares for your pet every day and you are more likely to notice subtle changes in your pet's behavior or physical abilities.

If your pet is experiencing one or more of the signs on this checklist, be sure to bring it to your veterinarian's attention. What may look like normal aging could be a manageable condition thanks to advances in animal medicine, nutrition and health care. The best results are achieved when problems are caught and treated early.

 
Signs Yes No
Difficulty jumping up or climbing stairs

 

 
Increased stiffness or limping

 

 
Loss of housetraining

 

 
Increased thirst

 

 
Increased urination

 

 
Changes in activity level; fatigue; sluggishness

 

 
Excessive panting

 

 
Circling/Repetitive movements

 

 
Confusion or disorientation; staring off into space

 

 
Excessive vocalization, especially at night

 

 
Less interaction with family

 

 
Decreased responsiveness

 

 
Tremors or shaking

 

 
Skin and haircoat changes; lumps; odor

 

 
Changes in sleeping patterns

 

 
Less enthusiastic greeting or behavior

 

 
Altered appetite

 

 
Weight change

 

 
Bad breath; red gums; difficulty eating; drooling

 

 
Coughing; labored breathing; shortness of breath

 

 
Vomiting; diarrhea; flatulence

 

 
Other changes (list)

 

 

 

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