2814 S 107th Ave, Omaha, NE 68124
Supporting Your Pet Through Every Stage of Aging
The golden years look a little different for every pet. Some seniors slow down gradually; others seem to defy the calendar entirely, until one day, something quietly shifts. At Rockbrook Animal Clinic, our senior wellness program is designed to catch those changes early, address them thoughtfully, and help your older companion live with comfort and dignity for as long as possible. We know how much these animals mean to you, and we take the privilege of caring for them seriously.
When is a Pet Considered a Senior?
Most dogs and cats are considered seniors between the ages of 7 and 10, though this varies by species, breed, and size. Large and giant breed dogs tend to age faster than smaller breeds, while cats often remain relatively youthful well into their teens. Regardless of the number, what matters most is how your pet is aging and that's exactly what our senior wellness exams are designed to assess.
We recommend twice-yearly wellness visits for senior pets. A lot can change in six months, and more frequent check-ins give us a much clearer picture of your pet's health trajectory over time.
What Our Senior Wellness Care Includes
Comprehensive Senior Exams
A thorough physical examination with special attention to the changes most common in older pets — joint mobility, muscle condition, dental health, heart and lung function, vision, cognition, and coat and skin quality. We take our time and we listen, because your observations at home are often the first indicator that something has changed.
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Expanded Bloodwork & Diagnostic Panels
Senior wellness bloodwork gives us a window into organ function that a physical exam alone cannot provide. We screen for kidney and liver changes, thyroid disease, diabetes, anemia, and other conditions that are more common and more manageable, when caught early.
2
Urinalysis & Blood Pressure Monitoring
Kidney disease and hypertension are among the most common conditions in senior cats and dogs. Routine urinalysis and blood pressure checks are simple, non-invasive ways to monitor for these conditions before symptoms appear.
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Thyroid Disease Screening
Hypothyroidism in dogs and hyperthyroidism in cats are both highly manageable when identified and treated appropriately. We include thyroid screening as a standard part of senior wellness panels.
4
Arthritis & Pain Management
Chronic pain is one of the most underrecognized conditions in older pets many animals mask discomfort instinctively. Our team is trained to identify the subtle signs of arthritis and musculoskeletal pain, and we offer a range of management options including medication, joint supplements, therapeutic approaches, and Stem Cell Therapy for eligible patients.
5
Cognitive & Behavioral Assessment
Changes in sleep patterns, disorientation, altered social behavior, and house training lapses can all be signs of cognitive decline in senior pets. We screen for these changes and discuss management strategies that support your pet's comfort and your family's daily life.
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Quality-of-Life Planning
One of the most meaningful conversations we have with pet owners is about quality of life — what it looks like for their pet, how to recognize when it's shifting, and how to make decisions with both love and clarity. We approach these conversations with honesty, compassion, and respect for the bond you share with your companion.
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Individualized Care for Common Senior Conditions
Many older pets live with one or more manageable chronic conditions. Our team has extensive experience helping families navigate:
- Arthritis and joint disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Kidney and liver disease
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Dental disease
- Skin and coat conditions
- Weight changes and nutritional needs
- Cognitive dysfunction
We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to senior care. Every treatment plan we develop is tailored to your pet's specific diagnosis, comfort level, and the goals you have for their quality of life.
A Team That Knows Your Pet
One of the greatest advantages of establishing long-term care with Rockbrook Animal Clinic is continuity. The team caring for your senior pet has often known them since they were young. That history matters, because it means we notice what's changed, we remember what's normal for your individual pet, and we can make more informed recommendations because of it. Senior care is not the time for a new relationship; it's the time to lean on the one you've already built.
If your dog or cat is entering their senior years, or if you've noticed changes you can't quite explain, now is a great time to schedule a senior wellness visit. Our team will take the time to truly assess where your pet is, answer your questions, and build a care plan that fits their needs and your life.