Care for Aged Dogs
Aging is a normal part of everyone's life, and at some point all dogs become seniors. It is the natural process of things and every owner should be prepared for it.
It is important to remember that many physiological changes occur during the aging process that your canine companion will experience.
These include:
Lack of energy
Reduced hearing
Changes in eyesight
Arthritis
Obesity
Dental problems
Cancers
Cardiac and kidney diseases
All dogs are not considered seniors at the same age, it mainly depends on the breed and the dogs unique traits.
Small breeds at 10 - 11 years of age
Medium sized breeds at 8 - 10 years
Gaint breeds at 5 - 6 years of age
Special care should be taken to the dogs when they are seniors than at the time when they are younger.
Regular exercise:
It will help your dog maintain their ideal weight and will also have a beneficial impact on their overall health.
Regular grooming:
As your dog ages their skin coat can become dull looking, dry,flaky and irritating skin that can become worse.
You have to brush your dog regularly to avoid the development of mats and tangles. It improves blood circulation to the skin and feel them better.
Age - appropriate diet:
A balanced diet plays a big role in maintaining your dogs health even when they are age. These are often low in fat and have fewer calories that will complement the nutrition need of your dog.
Older dogs are at higher risk of developing obesity and diabetes, since they no longer have the same levels of energy as before. So it is important to find the best dog food that is specially designed for senior dogs in order to prevent weight gain.
Provide special accomodations:
Older dogs often develop arthritis or other bone and joint problems that affect their mobility. Furthermore, a blind dog will also have trouble jumping on the bed or sofa at night.
In these cases, your dog can benefit from soft bedding and an easily accessible bed that won't require jumping and climbing.
If there is no way for your dog to avoid stairs, you can buy or build a doggy ramp or doggy proof Gates and restrict their access to the stairs.
Maintain oral health:
Most old dogs don't get proper dental care during their adult life, so it is not uncommon to see older dogs with a few missing teeth. Dental care is an important part of grooming and should be performed regularly from a young age.
Vaccinations:
Older dogs don't require them at the same intervals. Usually once every three years is enough, but it also depends upon the individual condition of the dog so consult your vet for proper guidenss.
Spend time with your pet:
An aged dog can easily become anxious if they don't sense their owner by their side. So try to spend as much time as you can with your pet.
Even though your dog might not be able to see or hear you, they still need your presence and attention in order to stay emotionally and mentally healthy.
Good to know about the managemental practices and clinical issues of aged dogs
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