Senior Pet Care in Summerville, SC | Compassionate Vets

Most veterinarians in Summerville recommend starting senior pet health screenings when dogs reach 7 years old and cats reach 8 years old. However, larger dog breeds may need to begin senior screenings earlier, around 5-6 years old, as they age faster than smaller breeds and have higher disease risk. At Coastal Creek Animal Hospital, Dr. Mack evaluates each patient individually based on their breed, size, health history, and lifestyle to determine the optimal timing for beginning comprehensive senior pet health screenings and preventative care.

Our senior pet health screenings in Summerville include a complete blood chemistry panel and urinalysis to check kidney function, liver health, and blood sugar levels, thyroid function testing, digital X-rays to examine internal organs and joints, blood pressure monitoring, ear examination, weight assessment, and a thorough physical examination focusing on mobility and pain assessment. We also provide ultrasound imaging when needed, dental care evaluation, and create customized senior pet care plans based on your pet’s specific health needs. All testing is performed in our state-of-the-art animal hospital on Old Trolley Road using advanced veterinary diagnostic equipment and laboratory services.

Senior dogs and cats in Summerville should have comprehensive health screenings every 6 months, as pets age much faster than humans and disease can progress rapidly. This frequency allows Dr. Mack and our veterinary care team to detect early signs of age-related conditions like kidney disease, arthritis, heart problems, and diabetes before they become serious health issues that affect quality of life. Some senior pets with existing health conditions may need more frequent monitoring and laboratory work, while healthy seniors might maintain annual screenings with semi-annual basic wellness exams and preventative care.

The most common conditions we detect during senior pet health screenings at our Summerville veterinary clinic include kidney disease, liver dysfunction, arthritis and joint problems causing pain, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid imbalances, dental disease, and ear infections. Early detection through comprehensive blood work, urinalysis, X-rays, and physical examinations allows us to implement treatment plans that significantly improve quality of life for aging pets. Many of these conditions can be managed effectively when caught early through regular senior pet health screenings and preventative care, often avoiding the need for emergency surgery or advanced interventions.

Senior pet health screening costs vary depending on which diagnostics your pet needs based on their age, breed, weight, and health history. At Coastal Creek Animal Hospital, we provide transparent pricing and work with pet owners to create screening packages that fit their budget while ensuring comprehensive veterinary care. We accept various payment options and can discuss payment plans for extensive laboratory work or additional diagnostics. Call us at (843) 948-0999 for specific pricing information and to schedule your senior pet’s health screening at our animal hospital.

Yes! Coastal Creek Animal Hospital offers same-day appointments for senior pet health screenings when possible at our veterinary clinic. We understand that health concerns with aging pets can’t always wait, especially if you notice sudden changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, weight, or mobility that may indicate disease, pain, or stress. Our Summerville veterinary care team prioritizes urgent senior pet concerns and will work to accommodate your scheduling needs. Call (843) 948-0999 as early as possible for same-day appointment availability.

During your senior pet’s first comprehensive health screening at our Summerville veterinary clinic, Dr. Mack will review your pet’s complete medical history, discuss any current health concerns including changes in behavior, diet, or weight, and perform a thorough physical examination including ear checks and pain assessment. We’ll collect blood samples for laboratory testing, perform urinalysis, take digital X-rays if indicated, and may perform additional diagnostics based on your patient’s specific needs. The visit typically takes 45-60 minutes, and we provide detailed explanations of all findings along with personalized recommendations for your senior pet’s ongoing veterinary care and wellness plans.

Yes, senior pet health screenings can help detect various types of cancer in their early stages through comprehensive diagnostics. Our laboratory blood work can reveal abnormal cell counts or organ function changes that may indicate disease, while digital X-rays and ultrasound imaging can identify tumors or masses before they become visible externally or cause pain. Early cancer detection through regular senior pet screenings significantly improves treatment options and outcomes for aging dogs and cats in the Summerville area, potentially avoiding the need for extensive surgery or reducing the risk of disease progression.