Senior Dog Care in Huntsville, AL

Caring for a senior dog involves attentive veterinary support, thoughtful monitoring at home, and regular checkups tailored to their changing needs. Midtown Veterinary Practice provides senior dog care designed to help your dog stay comfortable and supported as they age.

To book your dog’s next senior exam, call us at (256) 883-4148 or request a senior pet appointment online.

female petting senior black dog outdoors

Why Senior Pet Care Matters

Senior dogs experience physical and cognitive changes that can progress quickly without routine monitoring. Regular senior pet care helps your veterinarian track shifts in mobility, appetite, behavior, and comfort so any emerging issues can be addressed early. These visits also support long-term wellness strategies such as diet adjustments, pain management plans, and lifestyle modifications that keep aging pets steady on their paws.

Midtown Veterinary Practice takes a personalized approach to senior dog care, focusing on your dog’s unique health history, mobility level, and daily challenges. Your veterinarian works with you to build a plan that supports comfort and quality of life at every stage.

What to Expect During a Senior Pet Exam

two senior black chihuahuas sitting together on couch indoors

Senior exams offer a deeper look at your dog’s health and may include the following evaluations:

Body Condition Evaluation
Oral Exam
Heart and Lung Assessment
Skin, Coat, Eye, and Ear Checks
Nutritional Counseling

How to Prepare for Your Senior Dog’s Visit

A smooth visit begins with a little preparation at home. Our Senior Dog Vet Visit Checklist outlines several helpful steps:

  • Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss.

  • Take short video clips of any behaviors you want your veterinarian to evaluate.

  • Bring pre-approved treats if your dog has dietary restrictions.

  • Ask whether your dog should arrive fasted for bloodwork.

  • Bring a first-morning urine sample and a fresh stool sample when possible.

  • Consider pre-visit calming medication if recommended by your veterinarian.

You’ll also find additional resources below, which will help you get the most out of your dog’s appointment at our animal hospital.

Download Your Senior Dog Care Forms

Check out our helpful forms and checklists below to help prepare you and your pet before your appointment:

Keeping Your Senior Dog Comfortable at Home

Helping your senior dog stay comfortable between veterinary visits makes a meaningful difference in their daily routine. A few helpful strategies include:

Provide Supportive Bedding
Improve Traction in Busy Areas
Use Ramps or Pet Steps
Create Accessible, Low-Stress Spaces
Support Daily Mobility
Plan for Quiet Moments Together

You’ll also find additional resources below, which will help you get the most out of your dog’s appointment at our animal hospital.

Our Senior Dog Questionnaire

Please complete the form below prior to your dog’s senior care appointment with our team.

Senior Dog Questionnaire

General Information

Owner's Name
Owner's Name
First
Last

Home Life & Behavior

Has your dog’s activity level changed?
Any changes in your dog’s behavior or personality?
Does your dog show signs of confusion or disorientation (e.g., getting stuck in corners, staring at walls)?
Is your dog more anxious, clingy, or irritable than usual?
Any excessive vocalization?
Changes in sleep patterns; excessive sleeping?
Circling in the same direction or head pressing against walls?

Appetite & Eating Habits

Any changes in appetite?
Has your dog had trouble chewing or swallowing?
What type of food is your dog eating?

Body Functions

Has your dog’s water intake changed?
Any changes in urination?
Any signs of incontinence (leaking urine while resting/sleeping)?
Any changes in stool (consistency, frequency, or color)?
Any signs of constipation or diarrhea?

Teeth, Mouth, and Gums

Any bad breath or drooling?
Does your dog have difficulty eating or favor one side of the mouth?

Mobility & Pain

Any difficulty with stairs, jumping, or getting up/down?
Slow to get up or needs assistance to get up?
Shaking hind limbs when standing?
Have you seen your dog crossing limbs or dragging toes?
Does your dog show signs of stiffness, limping, or joint pain?

Eyes, Ears & Skin

Any cloudiness, redness, or discharge from the eyes?
Any hearing changes noticed?
Any new lumps, bumps, or skin changes?
Any itchiness, excessive licking, or hair loss?

Overall Health

Any coughing, sneezing, or breathing changes?
Have you noticed a cough that sounds like throat clearing?
Any difficulty breathing?
Panting more frequently?
Tires easily with activity?
Any episodes of vomiting or nausea?
Have you noticed weight gain or loss?
Is your dog currently on any medications or supplements?
When was your dog’s last bloodwork or senior panel (if known)?

Additional Comments or Concerns