Aging is not a disease in itself and there are many factors that influence the rate of aging; the most common being genetics, nutrition, environment, and the degree of preventative veterinary care given.

Genetics is a factor in that smaller breeds of dogs tend to live longer than larger breeds of dogs, and mixed breed dogs and cats tend to live longer than some pure breeds. Some breeds of dogs like Standard Poodles and Standard Schnauzers have longer life expectancies than other large size breeds such as Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Rottweilers.

Nutrition and Environment are major "aging" factors. Obesity and high fat, low fiber diets decrease life expectancy and "indoor" or yard confined dogs and cats live longer than "outdoor", free roaming pets.

Preventative veterinary care and proper nutrition are the main factors that you, as the pet owner, can control. Conway Animal Clinic veterinarians and staff can help your family give the maximum preventative medical care and protection to your pet. The Mature Pet Preventative Health Care Program is for all clients who have pets that are seven years of age or older.

Mature Pet Profile
The program includes: a twelve body system comprehensive physical exam, a complete blood count, a blood chemistry profile, a complete urinalysis, and a thyroid evaluation. This will allow us to obtain baseline laboratory values in healthy pets and to catch some problems very early in other pets. By early identification-the great majority of these pets will be able to undergo treatment early in the disease process and, ultimately, be saved from serious consequences.

1. Has your pet had any change in the amount of water consumed (drinking)?
   
2. Has your pet had any change in appetite? (more or less than normal)
   
3. Has your pet gained or lost a noticable amount of weight?
   
4. Has there been any change in your pets activity level?
   
5. Have you noticed any skin lumps, masses, or sores on your pet that do not heal?
   
6. Have you noticed any coughing? Sneezing? Vomiting? Diarrhea?
   
7. Have you noticed any abnormal odors associated with your pet?
   
8. Have you noticed any stiffness in the way your pet gets up or moves around?
   
9. Have you noticed any lameness?
   
10. Have you noticed any tremors or shaking?
    
11. Has there been any changes in your pets bowel movements or bathroom habits?
    
12. Does your pet urinate more, less or about the same as usual?
    
13. Are there any concerns that we should address?