Pets Living Longer
The life expectancy of our pets has more than doubled in the past 50 years.
Changing lifestyles, our view of pets, confining our pets, an increase in neutering and advances in veterinary medicine and technology, have all had a positive impact on how long our pets will live.
Veterinary specialists in ophthalmology, surgery, oncology, cardiology and many other specialties are extending the quality and length of our pet's lives.
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of old age in your pet will allow you to keep your pet healthy and happy into it's golden years.
Recent studies indicate that the average age for the canine population is approximately 5.1 years and for the feline population, approximately 4.9 years.
The average life span for dogs reaching one year of age has been estimated to be about 12 years.
Your pet will reach what would be considered older age sometime between six and eight years of age, depending on the breed, size of pet and general health. Your veterinarian is the best person to tell you when your pet has reached the age when special care should be taken to ensure continued good health.
Your veterinarian may recommend a special diet for your older pet, may suggest that your pet lose a little weight and will probably stress the importance of continued exercise to keep your pet healthy.

With a little extra care, your pet will live a long and healthy life.