WHAT IS A GOLDEN AGE PHYSICAL?

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We compare this exam to the “Over 40 Physical” we humans should get.  (Pets are generally seniors at 7 years of age)

As our bodies biologically age  so do the bodies of our pets.  One year of maturation for us is equivalent to 5-7 years aging for them.

The Golden Age Physical is a complete external and internal exam of the patient.

After a complete history gathering and physical exam we complete the appropriate blood tests, urine tests, internal parasite tests, x-rays, electrocardiograms, blood pressure tests for your pet.  We custom design the group of tests needed based on the risk factors, breed and species of your pet. 

What are the benefits for my pet and me ?

1. We detect conditions/diseases in pets before any symptoms are shown.  (Pets instinctively hide their symptoms as they don’t want to show their weaknesses and risk “becoming the prey.” )
2. We can then provide treatment or control in the early stages of the process.  Your pet lives with less pain, lives longer and happier.
3. We get the normal values for your pet in his/her record.  If your pet starts to exhibit unusual symptoms in the future we will know what his or her normal baseline is.  As an example a pet may normally have a white blood cell count that is in the low normal range.  For that individual a blood count in the high normal range may actually be indicative of an internal problem.  If we did not know the baseline we may mistakenly guess the high normal blood count was “normal” and not treat appropriately.  The better the information we have, the more accurate the diagnosis and treatment plan we make.
4. PEACE OF MIND.  You will not be wondering if everything is working well in your pet’s body.  The assurance you are providing the best preventative care for your family member pet is a comforting feeling for many owners.
5. If your pet is going to need general anesthesia for dental care and or growth removals, the Golden Age Physical information is perfect pre-anesthesia information.  We minimize the risk, the more we know about the internal workings of our patients the safer we can make the procedure.

Please give me some examples of what conditions/diseases you have diagnosed in “healthy looking” senior pets and have been able to intervene with treatments or cures.

1. Early heart, liver ,kidney, spleen, thyroid, parathyroid ,adrenal gland, and pancreatic conditions.
2. Arthritis conditions.
3. Early cancers—some are curable with surgery alone.
4. Bladder stones detected and treated with diet or surgery.
5. Diseases in their early states such as  potassium imbalances, intestinal malabsorption problems, internal parasite problems, neurological/cognitive conditions, hormone imbalances, uterine infections, etc.

As we perform more of these exams the more we are amazed our pets “hide” from us. They don’t complain and it is our desire to detect these issues in their early states to afford us the opportunity of early intervention and a greater likelihood of prevention or cures.

Do you recommend  we have the Golden Age Physical performed yearly after the initial time ?

For most healthy pets this is not necessary.

Would it be great health monitoring ?—yes.
 
Generally we do not repeat this extensive work up unless an obvious health conditions arise.
 
If your senior pet is not demonstrating any abnormal signs we just need the bloodwork, blood pressure, urine and internal parasite tests annually to monitor most of his/her internal health.

Semi-annual physical exams are generally adequate to pick up other aging concerns.

I understand the benefits of the Golden Age Physical exam.

What do I need to do now?

1. Schedule the appointment for the complete external physical exam first.  We request you fill out a detailed history form prior to the visit. (Senior Check List).
2.  The veterinarian will order the appropriate tests for your pet and our nurses will present the completed fee estimate (investment in wellness) to you.  
3. The day of testing can be the same day as the physical exam if you schedule an early morning appointment.  Please do not feed breakfast and  try to prevent them from urinating the 2-3 hours prior to the appointment time. (Helps us in sample collection).
4. We will arrange a pick up time with you later in the day after completing the tests.                           
5. At the time of your pets discharge we will schedule a time within the week to have you come in to review with the doctor the complete summary of the exam findings with a customized healthcare plan outlined for your pet.
6. You leave the hospital with the peace of mind  you have a big picture of your pets health status and a plan for future preventative/treatment care.