How to Be Your Senior Pet’s Advocate at the Vet Clinic
No one knows your pet better than you do. When our dogs and cats get older, even tiny changes can be big clues that something isn’t quite right. But sometimes at the vet clinic, it can be hard to speak up—especially if you’re overwhelmed, emotional, or not sure what questions to ask.
Here’s how you can show up as a strong advocate for your senior pet and make the most of every vet visit.
🔍 Before the Visit: Get Organized
Track symptoms. Write down what you’ve noticed—even if it feels small. Limping that comes and goes, pacing at night, or a new quirk could all be meaningful.
Bring a list of their diet and supplements. Include the brand and formula of their food, any treats they get regularly, and all supplements (with doses if possible). This helps your vet catch interactions or nutritional gaps.
Take videos. Especially for issues like coughing, wobbling, or behavior changes. Pets often act normal once they’re in the clinic.
List your questions. Think about what worries you most and what outcomes you're hoping for. Keep a running list in your phone or notebook.
Bring a Yoga Mat or Carpet Runner for them to lay on in the room for comfort! Vet clinic floors are meant to be easily cleaned but that can often be uncomfortable for senior pets.
⚖️ During the Visit: Speak Up with Confidence
You are part of the care team. Don’t be afraid to say, “I think something is off,” even if you can’t explain exactly what.
Ask for clarification. If something doesn’t make sense, ask your vet to explain again. It’s okay to say, “Can you repeat that in simpler terms?”
Request screenings. For senior pets, it’s reasonable to ask about pain assessments, cognitive decline, Bloodwork and Urine screening tests, imaging screening like Radiographs, and blood pressure checks.
🬓 After the Visit: Follow Through
Know the plan. Before you leave, repeat back the plan out loud: "So we're starting gabapentin and rechecking in 2 weeks, right?"
Ask about side effects. Make sure you know what to expect and what’s normal vs. what needs a callback.
Document everything. Keep records of lab work, medications, and notes in a folder or your phone.
🤝 When Finances Are a Concern
Be honest. Your vet wants to help. Let them know your budget up front so they can prioritize the most important diagnostics or treatments.
Ask about options. There may be alternatives, phased plans, or generic medications that are more affordable.
❓ If You Feel Dismissed
Trust your instincts. If you feel brushed off, it’s okay to get a second opinion. Advocacy isn’t confrontation—it’s protecting your pet’s well-being.
Bring backup. Sometimes having another person with you can help you remember more and feel more confident.
Your voice matters. You see your pet every day. If something feels off, it probably is.
Veterinarians and pet parents are a team—and when we work together, senior pets thrive.
Written by Dr. Amanda Steffen, DVM – Integrative Veterinarian for Senior Dogs & Cats
