Geriatric & Aging Pets
Aging is a natural process—not a disease. Just like people, pets experience many physical and mental changes as they grow older. As they age, their risk for certain health conditions increases, which is why Sterling Veterinary Clinic recommends twice-yearly exams for all senior pets. Regular checkups help us identify issues early and keep your companion comfortable and thriving.
Senior pets often have different nutritional needs, may be living with chronic joint pain, and can experience sensory changes such as diminished vision or hearing. You may also notice behavioral shifts—your pet may slow down, sleep more, or seem less active.
However, some changes can signal an underlying problem. Stiffness, difficulty getting up, anxiety, increased vocalization, or aggression are not simply “old age.” These signs deserve attention and care.
At Sterling Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to help your pet enjoy a comfortable, happy, and pain-free life well into their golden years. If you have concerns about your senior pet, we’re just a call away.
When it’s time to say goodbye…
During the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to a beloved pet, we are here for you. Choosing euthanasia can be one of the most difficult and emotionally complex decisions a pet owner ever faces. It is often accompanied by guilt, grief, and uncertainty—but you do not have to navigate it alone.
If you’re worried that your pet’s quality of life is no longer acceptable, or you feel that despite all the love, medications, special diets, and therapies, nothing seems to be helping anymore, we can support you. Our team can evaluate your pet, discuss any remaining options, and help guide you through this deeply personal decision with compassion and clarity.
When assessing your pet’s quality of life, you may find it helpful to reflect on questions such as:
Do they still enjoy their favorite activities?
Are they able to participate in the things they once loved?
Do they show joy or interest in what’s happening around them?
Or do they seem consistently depressed, anxious, afraid, or withdrawn?
Are they experiencing more bad days than good?
These questions can help you determine whether your pet may be suffering and whether they might benefit from a planned, peaceful, and pain-free passing.
At Sterling Veterinary Clinic, you don’t have to face this moment alone—we are here to support both you and your pet with compassion every step of the way..
Grief Support
At Sterling Veterinary Clinic, we strive to remove as much fear and uncertainty as possible from the process of humane euthanasia. Our dedicated comfort room is designed to provide a peaceful, private space for you and your pet, complete with a private exit and plenty of Kleenex—because we understand how emotional this moment can be.
A peaceful passing begins with a sedative injection, which helps your pet relax and ensures they feel no pain, fear, stress, or anxiety. Once your pet is fully sedated and resting comfortably, a doctor and assistant will gently administer a second medication that allows your pet to pass away quickly and peacefully—often within seconds.
You are always welcome to stay with your pet for the entire process, and you may take as much time as you need both before and after their passing. Our team is here to support you with compassion, respect, and the utmost care during this difficult time.