| AGEING DOGS |
He's been your loving companion for a long time.
He's still by your side, but he's not as
frolicsome or attentive as he once was. It's
inevitable - your beloved pet is growing old.
His needs are changing, and he will depend on
you more than ever to keep him healthy and
comfortable.
Most dogs reach "old age" at about seven years,
depending on their breed and size. Older dogs
still have a lot of life in them, but their
bodies and minds are changing just as aging
humans' do. Their metabolism and immune systems
slow down. Arthritis may affect their mobility.
Their vision and hearing may be impaired. They
may experience loss of bladder and bowel
control.
You may also notice changes in your dog's
appearance and disposition. The fur around his
muzzle and eyebrows may turn gray. He may be
less active and less eager to play; he may be
irritable around children and other dogs.
Your older dog should be examined by your
veterinarian at least once a year; some
recommend a checkup every six months. Vets can
perform special procedures to identify
age-related problems. Blood can be drawn to
check the liver, kidneys and pancreas; an
electrocardiogram can detect signs of heart
disease; other tests can check vision and
hearing. Your vet can also give you advice on
how to make life more comfortable for your old
friend.
An aging dog does not require as much food to
maintain his weight. Your veterinarian may
recommend converting to a geriatric or senior
diet, which contain easily digestible nutrients
and prevent obesity and gastrointestinal upsets
by limiting fats. Older dogs are more prone to
dehydration, so be sure he always has access to
plenty of water.
Grooming is particularly important for your
older dog. Not only will regular brushing keep
his coat and skin from becoming dry, it will
also help you find any lumps, tumors, or other
abnormalities, which should be brought to the
attention of your vet.
You should pay special attention to your dog's
dental care as he ages. He is likely to lose
some teeth and may develop bad breath. Keeping
his teeth clean and free of tartar can decrease
the chances that he will develop serious
problems, such as heart disease resulting from
tooth decay.
Arthritis may cause your older dog to be stiff
and sore when he tries to get up, especially if
he has been sleeping for some time. He may also
develop some lamesness in his stride and require
your help as he climbs stairs and gets in and
out of cars. Despite his decreased mobility, he
still needs some exercise everyday. Your vet may
recommend aspirin or other anti-inflammatory
drugs to ease pain and stiffness. You can help
your dog by making it easier for him to maneuver
around the house. Keep his nails trimmed short,
and lay down rugs or non-skid mats on uncarpeted
floors to reduce the risk of falls.
You may notice that your dog is less responsive
to your greetings or commands. This is likely
because he has developed hearing problems. Your
vet can confirm the extent of the problem. You
can continue to communicate with your dog
through touch and had signals. Remember that
your hearing-impaired dog should not be
disturbed while sleeping or approached from
behind.
Vision problems are also common in older dogs.
Failing sight is often indicated by cloudy eyes,
but, again, your vet can confirm the extent of
the problem. You can help your dog adjust to
reduced vision by maintaining a consistent
environment for him. Don't rearrange the
furniture or move his "things" to a new place.
This will only confuse and frustrate him,
causing stress that may even worsen his
condition.
Older dogs need to relieve themselves more
frequently, often immediately after waking. You
may need to start taking him out for bathroom
breaks once or twice during the night. If
nighttime incontinence becomes a problem, you
can lay a plastic sheet or washable pad over his
bed.
Do your best to ensure that your older dog is
comfortable. Make sure he has a soft bed in a
warm place away from drafts. Since he will be
less tolerant now of extreme temperatures, limit
his time outdoors. Remember that not only will
he be less interested in rambunctious play, loud
noises and lots of activity by children and
other pets may irritate him. Give him all the
space and quiet he desires.
To the best of his - and your - abilities, keep
up the activities he loved when he was younger.
Take walks, play fetch, do tricks, spend lots of
time together. Give him your attention and
affection. He is the same dog you brought home
as a pup, and his love for you will not diminish
as he ages. The best thing you can do for him is
to let your love for him grow right along with
him. |
| |
 |
| |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
