6 Million Pets Considered Senior

PRESS RELEASE - For Immediate Release

18 September 2020

Noticed some grey around the muzzle or some stiffness in joints in your older dog or cat? You’re not alone.  Nearly 6 million pets in Australia are estimated to be what veterinarians call “senior”. The good news is that there is now a new free service to help you and other  Aussie pet lovers who care for older dogs, cats, and other pets.

After research identified that Australians didn’t feel they could easily find the information they need to help care for their more mature furry family members, veterinary pioneer Dr Mark Perissinotto, CEO, founder and head vet at  leading Australian online pet health products retailer, VetShopAustralia, lept into action, calling in some of Australia’s best veterinarians and other health professionals, supported by reputable and well established pet product and service companies that specialise in the needs of older pets,  and the Older Pet Alliance (OHA) was formed.

“Dogs and cats over 7 years of age are considered “senior” and often have special needs” says Dr Perissinotto, “It’s important that those of us caring for older pets know what to look for, and most importantly how to respond to issues more mature pets encounter. While the internet is full of information and advice, much of it is out of date or not appropriate for Australian conditions, some of it is overly technical  and unfortunately some of it is scientifically suspect or outright wrong.” 

In response to this identified need, OlderPet.com.au, an information portal designed to help Australian  senior pet owners source up to date, scientifically accurate information was created. 

OlderPet.com.au provides a simple easy to use repository of information for Australians written in a readily understandable way and addressing the needs of Australia’s older pets. 

Topics include the treatment of common and less common diseases in older dogs and cats, general aged care for pets,  products which make carrying for older pets easier, and guides to planning for the later years and even the final weeks of your pet’s life. 

Most importantly, while it's written in language every older pet owner can understand, it’s prepared by Australian vets and animal health professionals to ensure that it's accurate and scientifically supported. Unlike many internet sources, the date of the content and the identity of the contributors are clearly disclosed to allow the reader to make informed decisions regarding its reliability.

OlderPet.com.au is totally free to use and no sign up or registration is required. All operating costs are borne by supporters and contributors, including VetShopAustralia, Hills, BondiVet, Paw by Blackmore, Orivet, Knose, PetScripts, and others.

For more information visit www.olderpet.com.au