As dogs age, their health needs change, requiring more attention to ensure they remain comfortable and happy. Regular wellness checks are vital for catching issues early and maintaining your senior dog's quality of life. Here’s a guide to the essential wellness checks for senior dogs, typically those over seven years old, though this varies by breed.

1. Regular Veterinary Examinations

Senior dogs should visit the vet at least twice a year. These checkups allow veterinarians to assess overall health, detect subtle changes, and address age-related conditions. The vet will:

·  Perform a physical exam to check for lumps, bumps, or abnormalities.

·  Evaluate mobility, joint health, and signs of arthritis.

·  Monitor weight to prevent obesity or detect unexplained weight loss, which could indicate underlying issues.

There are a few important scoring systems used in veterinary health, such as Body Condition Score (BCS) to assess a dog’s weight status, and Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS) to evaluate muscle mass and detect early signs of muscle loss—together giving a complete picture of your pet’s overall condition.

2. Dental Health Assessments

Dental disease is common in senior dogs and can lead to pain, infections, or systemic health issues. During wellness checks:

·   Vets examine teeth and gums for plaque, tartar, or gingivitis.

·   Professional cleanings may be recommended to prevent periodontal disease.

·   Regular dental care, including brushing at home, supports overall health and prevents complications.

3. Bloodwork and Laboratory Tests

Routine blood tests are crucial for detecting issues not visible during physical exams. Common tests include:

·   Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks for anemia or infection.

·   Blood Chemistry Panel: Assesses kidney, liver, and pancreas function.

·    Thyroid Testing: Monitors for hypothyroidism, common in older dogs.

·   Urinalysis: Detects urinary tract infections or kidney issues. These tests help identify conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or liver problems early, allowing for timely treatment.

4. Vision and Hearing Checks

Aging dogs may experience vision or hearing loss. During wellness visits:

·   Vets assess for cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal issues.

·   Hearing tests may involve observing responses to sounds. Early detection allows you to adapt your home environment, like keeping furniture consistent or using visual cues for training.

5. Joint and Mobility Evaluations

Arthritis and joint issues are prevalent in senior dogs. Vets will:

·   Check for stiffness, limping, or difficulty rising.

·    Recommend joint supplements, pain management, or physical therapy.

·    Suggest low-impact exercises like short walks or swimming to maintain mobility.

When it comes to understanding your dog’s comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing, veterinarians use several validated scoring systems. These tools help track pain, quality of life, and age-related changes, making it easier to provide the right care at the right time. Some of the most widely used scales include:

·    Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI): Measures both the severity of pain and how it affects your dog’s daily activities, making it especially useful for chronic conditions like arthritis.

·    Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD): A simple questionnaire that helps evaluate stiffness, mobility, and overall activity to monitor osteoarthritis progression.

·    Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating Scale (CCDR): Identifies behavioral changes linked to cognitive decline (doggy dementia) and helps distinguish them from normal aging.

·    HHHHHMM Scale: Focuses on quality of life by assessing Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and “More good days than bad”, guiding care decisions in later stages of life.

6. Heart and Lung Health

Cardiac and respiratory issues can develop with age. Vets may:

·   Listen for abnormal heart sounds or murmurs.

·   Check lung function for signs of coughing or breathing difficulties.

·    Recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays or echocardiograms if issues are suspected.

7. Skin and Coat Monitoring

A senior dog’s skin and coat can reveal health issues. Vets will:

·  Look for dryness, thinning fur, or lumps that could indicate allergies or tumors.

·  Check for parasites like fleas or ticks, which can be harder for older dogs to tolerate. Regular grooming at home complements these checks, helping you spot changes early.

8. Cognitive Function Assessment

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), similar to dementia, affects some senior dogs. Signs include disorientation, altered sleep patterns, or reduced interaction. Vets may:

·  Ask about behavioral changes to diagnose CDS.

·  Suggest diets rich in antioxidants or medications to support brain health.

Scale like Canine Dementia Scale (CADES): A structured questionnaire that scores behavioral and cognitive changes in dogs, helping track the severity of canine cognitive dysfunction and guide management strategies.

Tips for Pet Owners

·  Schedule Biannual Visits: More frequent checkups catch issues early.

·  Monitor at Home: Watch for changes in appetite, behavior, or energy levels and report them to your vet.

·  Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental stimulation tailored to your dog’s needs.

·  Keep Records: Track symptoms, medications, and vet recommendations to share during visits.

Regular wellness checks are the cornerstone of keeping your senior dog healthy and comfortable. By working closely with your veterinarian and staying proactive, you can catch potential issues early and ensure your furry friend enjoys their golden years to the fullest. Always consult your vet to tailor these checks to your dog’s specific needs, as every dog ages differently.