On average our fur babies age 5 to 8 times faster than us. At age 2 to 3, our pets have already reached adulthood. From age 4 to 6, they are middle age. This is often when we see health issues starting to arise. From 7 years old, many dogs, larger breeds particularly, enter their senior years.

Major health issues can occur in what we perceive as a short amount of time because our pets age so rapidly. And just like us the risk of serious conditions increase with age. Annual to bi-annual health assessment (for our older animals) are a good way to help find, treat or prevent illness before it becomes life-threatening.

Depending on their life-stage your veterinarian may recommend screening tests to help identify potential problems that are commonly encountered. If a particular issue is flagged at your check-up your veterinarian may recommend specific test(s) to further investigate problem.