This free Veterinary CPD Podcast is produced by the Pure Animal Podcast. Veterinarian and acupuncturist Dr Alison Moran discusses how to communicate with owners around caring for their geriatric cats and dogs.

Besides medication there are many things that owners can do at home to support older pets and reduce wear and tear. Dr Moran talks through how she approaches consultations with senior pets owners including specific questions that are useful when taking a history.

Once clinical signs are present disease processes are often well under way. Regular check ups, urinalysis and weight checks as well as blood pressure monitoring in cats are especially important in older pets.

Dr Moran gives really useful tips on low cost thing owners can do at home to help improve proprioception and muscle strength. For example feeding dogs off a partially inflated air mattress, using acupuncture points, and simple joint massages.

Other discussion points covered in the podcast include nutraceuticals, acupuncture, weight management and euthanasia. 

Related Podcasts: 

• Identifying and Monitoring DJD/OA in cats (Vetfolio Podcast)
• Managing Osteoarthritis (Vet Times Podcast)