Companion Animals Symposium: Living beyond 20: Discoveries in geriatric companion animal biology.

It has traditionally been the responsibility of the animal science community to develop management, nutrition, health and well-being protocols for animals raised for production purposes. The vast array of scientific inquiry dedicated to production livestock have been instrumental in the management of these animals to optimize a value-based end product. Within the last several decades however, the animal science landscape has changed and diversified to include companion and exotic animals. In contrast to production animals, companion and exotic animals typically are not managed for production purposes; therefore, shifting the goals of animal husbandry away from production and toward longevity. Companion animals are valued in the home for their companionship and service, while exotic animals are typically managed for exhibit, education, research, or species conservation programs. This diversification of species included within the scope of the Animal Science community has provided a new direction for research efforts as the majority of these animals should live healthy lives that allow them to reach their senior years. Approximately 25% of dogs and cats in the United States are over 7 years of age and a large number of captive zoo animals are considered geriatric. In fact, many exotic animal species live longer in captivity due to managed health practices, genetics, optimal nutrition, and appropriate husbandry. These are significant and growing animal populations with specialized needs regarding nutrition, veterinary care, and behavioral husbandry management. While research efforts have been invaluable in promoting the health and longevity of these aging animal populations, additional research efforts are still needed to better understand the physical, physiological, and cognitive changes of geriatric animals and how to apply those discoveries to animal husbandry. The objectives of this symposium are to explore the scientific discoveries specific to the quality of life, nutrition and well-being of geriatric companion and exotic animals and to encourage and promote future research related to these growing animal populations.