Senior Cat & Dog Wellness Care in Harrisonburg, VA

As pets age, their health needs evolve—and so does the care they receive at Ashby Animal Clinic. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate every stage of your pet’s life, especially their senior years. Whether your constant companion is slowing down a bit or facing age-related health concerns, we’re committed to providing personalized care that keeps them comfortable, active, and happy for as long as possible.

If your pet is entering their senior years, reach out to schedule a wellness exam today. Early detection makes all the difference!

Happy Senior Dog Outside

Why Frequent Wellness Care Is Important for Senior Pets

Senior pets—typically those over 7 years of age—are more prone to developing chronic conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, dental issues, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. These conditions often progress slowly and silently, which is why routine veterinary exams and screening tests become even more essential with age.

At Ashby Animal Clinic, we tailor our senior care to each pet’s unique needs. We recommend wellness exams every 6 months to help us catch subtle changes before they become major health concerns. With more frequent visits, we can closely monitor your pet’s weight, mobility, appetite, and behavior—plus run diagnostics as needed to check internal organ function.

Elderly Woman Holding Senior Cat

Comprehensive Senior Pet Screening Tests

Even if your senior pet seems perfectly healthy, screening tests give us a more complete picture of what’s going on beneath the surface. These diagnostics can help us catch problems early—when treatment is most effective and less costly.

Our recommended senior pet screening often includes:

  • Complete blood count

  • Serum chemistry panels

  • Thyroid levels

  • Urinalysis to assess kidney and bladder function

  • Blood pressure monitoring

  • X-rays or imaging to evaluate the heart, lungs, and joints

Catching conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid imbalance early can add years of health and vitality to your pet’s life.

Senior Dog and Cat Concerns: What to Watch for at Home

You know your pet best, and your observations are incredibly valuable. If you notice any of the following signs, don’t wait—schedule an exam with your veterinarian in Harrisonburg right away:

  • Changes in appetite or drinking habits
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Increased urination or accidents in the house
  • Stiffness, difficulty climbing stairs, or reluctance to play
  • Bad breath, drooling, or trouble eating
  • Lumps or bumps on the body
  • Disorientation, confusion, or restlessness at night
  • New or worsening anxiety

Even small changes can signal a deeper issue. Our team will work with you to investigate and make a plan that supports your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

A Gentle, Thoughtful Approach to Senior Dog and Cat Care

We know it’s not easy watching your best friend grow older—but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Ashby Animal Clinic, we take time with every senior patient to ensure they feel safe, relaxed, and loved during every visit. Whether it’s adjusting their treatment plan, providing pain relief, or simply helping you understand what to expect, we’re here for both of you.

Let’s give your pet the healthy, happy golden years they deserve. Schedule a senior wellness exam today!