Compassion - Integrity - Commitment
Our four legged senior citizens do not require as many calories as a younger one does. Many older pets benefit from an increase in fiber, just as we do as we age. Extra weight on a senior pet, just as in humans, is something to be avoided. There are many excellent foods available that suit the special needs of the senior citizen. Be sure to discuss any diet changes with your veterinarian to ensure that all essential vitamins and minerals are in the appropriate dosage and that the more delicate digestive system of the senior is not upset by sudden changes in the diet.
Cataracts and glaucoma can affect senior pets the same as it does humans. A change in the appearance or color of the eye may signal that vision is being lost. Watch your dog for signs of sight loss by watching him as he maneuvers outside and in the house. Does he bump into things? An eye pressure check should be included in your dog's annual exam.
As your pet ages, you may notice that he does not respond to you as he once did. He sleeps sounder and longer than he once did. Some dogs even display some form of sudden aggression. This could mean that he is losing his hearing. You may have to learn hand signals and teach your pet how to "read" these commands. Senior dogs do not like change, they like things "comfortable and the same".
If your senior dog is confused, disoriented and "not himself, an exam by your veterinarian is in order. Just as humans are prone to Alzheimer's disease, our senior pet may experience similar changes. There are medications available from your veterinarian that may be appropriate which can be beneficial in treating these symptoms.
Have you hugged your dog today?
A touch of gray on the chin or around the muzzle. Once-clear eyes becoming a little cloudy. A slight stiffness in what used to be a frisky gait. Any of these can be telltale signs that your canine best friend is entering the "golden" years. A special bond exists with a dog that has loved you unconditionally for many years. It's a hard thing to accept that a dog's lifespan doesn't match a human lifespan. For every year a human ages, a dog ages the equivalent of 7 years. For all their years of unconditional love, they deserve the best care we can give them to insure that their golden years are some of their best years.
There is nothing more distinguished
than the face of a senior dog.
than the face of a senior dog.
Exercise is important in older animals, just as it is in people, to keep the muscles in shape - even if they have arthritis. Exercise should be modified to meet your pet's ability. As our dogs age, many exhibit signs of arthritis. There are many excellent medications for arthritis pain that may be prescribed or purchased over the counter to help keep your senior comfortable. Consult your veterinarian if you feel your pet is losing some mobility or experiencing pain or stiffness. Its important to remember that your dog is now in his golden years so don't expect him to run and jump like a puppy, even if the he still thinks he can! Our dogs will always try to do what we ask, let's be sure not to ask too much of their less flexible muscles.
Veterinary care and monitoring is important for your senior. After age eight, a screening blood panel can be helpful in establishing a base line and identifying unseen problems. good dental care is important during all phases of your dog's life, but as he ages, gum disease and periodontal disease become a major health issue. Diseased teeth and gums pose serious health problems for your dog. Periodontal disease can lead to infection that can enter your dog's bloodstream causing not only pain but liver, kidney and heart disease. A dental check-up should be part of every exam given by your veterinarian.
Veterinary care and monitoring is important for your senior. After age eight, a screening blood panel can be helpful in establishing a base line and identifying unseen problems. good dental care is important during all phases of your dog's life, but as he ages, gum disease and periodontal disease become a major health issue. Diseased teeth and gums pose serious health problems for your dog. Periodontal disease can lead to infection that can enter your dog's bloodstream causing not only pain but liver, kidney and heart disease. A dental check-up should be part of every exam given by your veterinarian.
Older bodies like creature comfort........ a nice soft bed to pad those old bones. A nice lengthy massage to ease painful muscles also give you the opportunity to check for new lumps and bumps. Regular, gentle brushing and more frequent trimming of nails that become more brittle with age help keep your senior looking and feeling better.
The most important part of all is to love and appreciate your senior. Give him a hug....spend some time with him for too soon they leave us and the opportunity is gone forever.
The most important part of all is to love and appreciate your senior. Give him a hug....spend some time with him for too soon they leave us and the opportunity is gone forever.
When is my dog a "senior"?
The Golden Years
