An ageing pet’s organs gradually deteriorate and may lose their ability to function properly. We use senior testing to promote early detection and treatment of disease, so we can maintain health and prevent illness during your pet’s senior years. Early detection of disease often gives us more effective and less costly treatment options. Senior testing also helps establish normal baseline values for your pet, creating a point of comparison for the future.

What pets should take part in senior testing?

We recommend senior testing for all pets over the age of 8 years. If your pet is 8 years or older, we consider him or her senior. Your pet may seem healthy well into its senior years, however, many problems common to senior pets (like kidney disease or heart failure) may not present symptoms until your pet becomes seriously ill. A comprehensive senior care programme helps your veterinarian identify problems early enough to institute preventative healthcare measures.

What is a “Golden Oldies” test?

Your pet’s complete senior testing programme includes:

  • A physical exam is the most important part of the Golden Oldies programme. Your veterinarian will assess all body systems to check for any abnormalities.
  • Blood chemistry tests measure levels of various substances in the blood and diagnose diseases such as diabetes and liver and kidney failure.
  • A complete blood count (CBC) provides a detailed look at the blood itself and helps the veterinarian diagnose anaemia or infection.
  • A urinalysis gives information on kidney function and checks for urinary tract infections.
  • Radiographs (x-rays) come as part of the Golden Oldies programme. Generally, perform chest radiographs to assess the heart and lungs. However, your veterinarian may decide a different radiograph would be more important to your pet, especially in the case of arthritis.
  • A consultation with the veterinarian to discuss the results of the tests and to plan any aftercare that may be required. You also get all the results presented to you in a folder for your ongoing reference.

I’d like my pet to participate in the Golden Oldies programme. What do I do?

Call us to arrange a day for your pet to receive his or her testing.

Once you have an appointment booked, please withhold food from your pet starting at 8.00pm the night before so we can get an accurate blood sample. Make water available for your pet as usual. We prefer that you drop your pet at the clinic before 8.30am and we will schedule an appointment for you to collect your pet and see the veterinarian between 3.00pm and 7.00pm the same day, so that the test results can be discussed with you.

What does it cost?
The cost of the complete package is $345. This also includes a free worm tablet.