Companion Dog Senior Mobility Assessment

Mobility decline in senior dogs is common and often under-treated - systematic assessment enables earlier intervention and better quality of life.

Key Facts

Osteoarthritis affects an estimated 20% of dogs over 1 year and up to 80% of senior dogs
Many dogs hide pain due to stoic instincts - subtle behavioural changes are the primary indicator
Validated mobility assessment tools including CBPI and HCPI enable objective scoring
Environmental modifications such as ramps, non-slip flooring, and orthopaedic beds improve welfare
Multimodal pain management including NSAIDs, physiotherapy, and weight management is most effective
The canine anti-nerve growth factor antibody bedinvetmab offers a new treatment option for OA pain

Welfare Considerations

Mobility decline in senior dogs frequently goes unrecognised and under-treated. Owners often attribute slowing down or reluctance to exercise to 'old age' rather than pain. Regular veterinary mobility assessments from middle age onwards enable earlier intervention and significantly improve quality of life in senior dogs.

What You Can Do

Schedule regular mobility assessments with your vet for dogs over 7 years of age
Learn to score your dog's mobility using a validated owner-completed tool
Invest in environmental modifications to support arthritic dogs at home
Ask your vet about multimodal pain management including physiotherapy referral
Raise awareness that slowing down in senior dogs often indicates treatable pain