Please note: We will be OPEN on Wednesday, December 24th from 8:00am- 12:00pm for Christmas Eve!

We will be CLOSED on Thursday, December 25th for Christmas and on Thursday, January 1st for New Years!

Fort Henry Animal Hospital is very proud to introduce Kayla Swanay DVM, the newest addition to our talented and caring veterinary team.

Dr. Kayla earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Reno before moving to the East Coast to pursue her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University, graduating in 2015. Since then, she has been proud to serve the Tri-Cities communities, developing special interests in soft-tissue surgery, dentistry, and preventive medicine.

In her spare time, she is a volunteer puppy raiser for the Guide Dog Foundation. She helps future service dogs gain fundamental skills and experiences that will allow them to change someone else’s life for the better. She also enjoys rescue and hospice care, and usually has at least one senior/rescue pet in her home at any given time. She spends quiet days on her farm with her dogs, cats, miniature pig, ball python snakes, as well as her horses. She is a fan of true crime, traveling, cross stitching, performance arts, outdoor adventures and reading.

Dr. Kayla Swanay understands the important role pets play within the family and is dedicated to helping them live long, healthy, and happy lives. Clients are encouraged to make an appointment for their beloved canine or feline companions so that Dr. Kayla can work with them to develop a personalized plan that ensures each pet receives the best care possible. Please join us in welcoming her to the Fort Henry Family.

Pet Geriatric Care

Comprehensive pet geriatric care in Kingsport, TN at Fort Henry Animal Hospital ensures your senior pet’s health and happiness with regular check-ups.

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Pet Geriatric Care in Kingsport, TN

As pets age, they experience various physical and mental changes that can affect their overall well-being. At Fort Henry Animal Hospital in Kingsport, TN, we understand the unique needs of older pets and offer specialized pet geriatric care tailored to ensure their comfort and health. Regular check-ups and proactive management of age-related conditions are essential to enhancing your pet’s quality of life.

Understanding Pet Geriatric Care

Pet geriatric care focuses on the unique health concerns that arise as animals age. Regular physical exams are crucial for identifying potential health issues before they escalate. We recommend that all pets receive a comprehensive physical examination at least twice a year. For senior pets or those with chronic conditions, more frequent visits—two to three times a year—are advisable. These check-ups provide a thorough assessment of your pet’s health, enabling us to detect early signs of problems.

Benefits of Geriatric Care

The benefits of pet geriatric care in Kingsport, TN, are substantial. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your pet’s health closely, ensuring any changes are addressed promptly. During these visits, we conduct several important tests, including blood work, urinalysis, and blood pressure testing. Additionally, we may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) and X-rays to further evaluate your pet’s heart and overall condition. Early detection of issues such as kidney disease, diabetes, or heart problems can significantly improve your pet’s prognosis and quality of life.

Moreover, regular examinations enable us to discuss dietary adjustments and exercise plans that can benefit your aging pet. Maintaining a balanced diet and appropriate activity level is crucial for managing weight and supporting joint health. Our team will work with you to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

When to Seek Geriatric Care

It is important to recognize when your pet may need geriatric care. If your pet is showing signs of aging, such as reduced energy levels, changes in appetite, weight loss, or difficulty moving, it may be time for an evaluation. Additionally, behavioral changes like increased anxiety or confusion can signal the need for a thorough health assessment.

Pet geriatric care at Fort Henry Animal Hospital not only addresses physical health but also considers the emotional and mental well-being of your pet. Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating a comfortable environment where both you and your pet can feel at ease.