Senior Care Thanks to better nutrition and improved veterinary care, our treasured canine companions are living longer. And, as they become seniors, they may require additional or different care to preserve the quality of their remaining years. Today, thanks to ongoing pet research, we know dogs' nutritional needs change with age. Balanced foods formulated expressly for senior dogs are now available. These rations are developed considering the facts that senior dogs 1) generally have a lower metabolism, 2) may require different levels of certain nutrients such as proteins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids and 3) can experience digestive problems associated with aging. Generally, most dogs age 7 (age 5 for some bigger breeds) are considered "middle-aged" and on their way to becoming seniors. This is the time to change to a senior food.
Some of the first visible signs of aging are gray hair around the muzzle and less activity. At this point, a visit to the vet to do basic blood and urine tests to establish a health baseline is recommended. Keep your pet's vaccinations up to date because with aging comes a decline in your pet's immune system and increased susceptibility to disease.
Dental disease is another chronic health problem with older dogs. "Bad teeth" and gum problems can lead to bacteria entering the blood and infecting almost any organ. Regular veterinarian visits and weekly at-home dental care can help prevent periodontal disease.
If your older dog seems reluctant to climb stairs or run and jump, he could be suffering from arthritis. Today, your veterinarian has several options to treat this condition including: change to a senior pet food formula, administering non-steriodal anti-inflamatory medicine and sometimes even surgery. To help keep your senior in top condition, implement an exercise routine. Something as simple as a short daily walk will do. Start with 10 minutes and gradually increase the time spent exercising. If you pet has difficulty breathing or tires easily, check with your vet.
Most importantly, give your old friend tender loving care every day, rewarding the devotion and love he's given you through the years. See how old your dog is in human years. |