First things first, check the teeth!  Ruby has pretty bad dental calculus, she will definately require a dental from my vet.  If I choose not to take care of this serious issue, the tarter would continue to build up and the pet would be swallowing bacteria on a regular basis, which weakens the immune system.  So!  Get the dental.  While they are under, see if they need their nails clipped-its much easier to do that while they are under anesthesia. 

Also, is the pet overweight?  The older they get, the easier it is for them to pack on weight- especially if they are with an owner who can’t walk them because of an ailment, etc.  This was Ruby’s situation, she was a therapeutic pet for a very sick owner who recently passed.  Because of this, she is about 3 pounds overweight tops, maybe a little less.  I know she hasn’t been taken on a walk in a couple of years, but she is so excited every day when I take her!  She is such a gift.

Now, what about flea control?  I have no way of knowing if Ruby was ever given any, and its better to be safe than sorry. I also wanted to change her food, because the previous owner fed a food that wasn’t very healthy.  To change the food, make sure to do this over a period of a few days, slowly introducing the new food with the old food to avoid stomach upset in your pet.  Also, if you have a vet history (which I really recommend trying to get your hands on) you need to check to make sure the pet has been spayed or neutered, because if they aren’t, thats your job!!  And you thought getting a puppy was work!!

I hope these tips have helped you…I know they are helping Ruby!  She is such a wonderful addition to our home.  Since foreclosure pets is such a serious issue, people will be rescuing older pets, just like me.  This should be enough to get you started- make sure to see your vet as soon as possible!