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The 3 D's to Better Health:
Minimizing the Effects of Aging
Dentistry
Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common conditions encountered
in veterinary medicine. Plaque and bacteria accumulate on
your pet's teeth providmig a foothold for bacteria to begin infecting gums
and the roots of teeth. This can result in tooth loss and pain. Furthermore,
bacteria may enter the bloodstream through the large network
of blood vessels located near the teeth and gums. Studies show
that these bacteria may infect major organs such as the kidneys,
liver and heart!Dentistry
Diet
Like puppies and kittens, older dogs and cats have different nutritional
requirements specific to their life stage. Proper nutrition
is vital to maintain optimal organ function and improve quality of life. High
quality senior diets provide protein, vitarmins and minerals
in the correct proportions and digestibility to meet the
special needs of older dogs and cats. In general, grocery store diets
do not address the special nutritional needs of senior
pets and many over-the-counter diets may contribute to obesity and other
diseases common to our older patients. Just ask us and we
can recommend a few excellent senior diets!Diagnostics
Blood testing is the best way to assess your older friend's health status
and make appropriate therapeutic and diet recommendations,
if any are needed. A blood screen checks the health of red blood cells (carry
oxygen), white blood cells (fight infection), and platelets
(blood clotting) and also evaluates the function of rnajor
internal organs. We also use an ECG (electrocardiogram) to evaluate the electrical
activity of the heart. Diagnostic testing is the most important
way to accurately assess the aging process. Don't worry,
it doesn't hurt or take very long!Our AHAP health program has several important medical benefits:
1) Evaluates function of your pet's internal organs including kidney, liver, and heart.
2) Tests for common diseases in older pets including anemia, infection, diabetes, hypo/hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, liver disease, cardiac arrhythmias (heart) and certain types of cancer.
3)Allows scientifically based nutritional recommendations for your older pet.
Metzger Animal Hospital Senior and Geriatric AHAP Program
Components of the plan include: comprehensive blood analysis including CBC (complete blood count), biochermical profile (kidney, liver, pancreas, blood sugar, cholesterol), electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride), T4 (thyroid), urinalysis, and an ECG (electrocardiogram of the heart). Our mission at Metzger Animal Hospital is to do whatever we can to maximize the health of your pet. To that end, we are willing to credit the cost of any vaccines received after a regular visit toward the cost of the AHAP program.