Hematological and biochemical alterations in geriatric dogs: a short-interval clinical screening study

Geriatric dogs experience a progressive decline in overall organ function with advancing age, making routine health screening essential for the early detection of asymptomatic age-related disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the health status of geriatric dogs using comprehensive blood profile analysis. Blood samples were collected from six dogs aged 10 years that were intensively managed at the Veterinary Teaching Clinic, Study Program of Veterinary Paramedic, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia. Hematological and serum biochemical examinations were performed, including the assessment of AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total bilirubin, ALP, cholesterol, GGT, BUN, creatinine, and glucose levels. Blood examinations were conducted twice at intervals of approximately four weeks. All geriatric dogs exhibited evidence of declining health status, characterized by alterations in several complete blood count parameters, including thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, and mild lymphocytosis. In addition, changes in the biochemical profile were observed, notably elevated AST and BUN levels in several dogs. These findings highlight the importance of regular hematological and biochemical monitoring in geriatric dogs to support the early detection and clinical management of age-associated physiological deterioration.