Pet dogs today live longer than ever because of advancements in nutrition and veterinary care. However, similar to people, they may develop age-related issues and difficulties as they become older, leading to a potentially different set of needs. The question is, how can you guarantee your elderly dog is happy and healthy?
Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy
All dogs eventually reach senior status since aging is an unavoidable part of life. The critical point is that aging dogs have different demands than younger dogs. To guarantee the health and wellness of your senior dog, you will need to take some more steps beyond the norm.
Following these tips will offer you understanding of what works best for your older dog’s health and happiness.
Adjust Their Diet As Needed
Like humans, dogs’ nutritional demands and tastes tend to shift with age. If that’s the case with your dog, switching around their mealtimes might help. Snacks eaten typically throughout the day can be a fantastic way to attract fussy eaters. If they appear pleased with their current diet, keep giving it to them.
Nevertheless, if your dog has worn or broken teeth, switching from dry to wet food may help them eat again. On top of that, as their immune systems decline, elderly dogs have a higher risk of developing cancer. Therefore, if your dog is revealing any signs and symptoms of illness, you need to speak to a dog oncologist from a reliable vet center like Montecito Veterinary Center.
Keep Them Active
It’s essential for elderly dogs to stay up to date with their exercise routines. Loss of muscular mass in dogs leads to frailty syndrome, which has been connected to a quickened aging process. There may be something wrong if your dog’s activity level falls over time.
Dog owners must keep an eye out for pain indications in senior pets and see a veterinarian experienced in veterinary geriatrics to identify the best course of action. Pet owners continue to think that “slowing down” indicates aging. However, when this happens, it suggests untreated discomfort.
Update Their Vaccination and Parasite Protection
Your dog’s age makes no difference in preventing parasite infestations, including fleas, ticks, lice, and worms. If your pet is parasite-free, the outstanding care you’ve been providing should continue.
Nevertheless, vaccinations for senior dogs aren’t necessary as frequently. Although it’s recommended every three years, you need to always ask your vet for their particular recommendation for your dog.
Always Monitor Their Health
It doesn’t take a veterinarian to detect the signs and symptoms of several illnesses that affect elderly dogs. You should monitor your dog’s health in between appointments with the vet. It’s time to make a visit with the vet if any of these indicators continue.
- Shortness of breath or other difficulty breathing
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Stiffness or limping
- Weakness
- Changes in appetite, water intake, or urination
- Lumps
- Coughing
Keep the contact information of a vet lab and pet pharmacy handy in case your pet is sick or injured. Since one may never know what will happen, it is necessary to have an emergency strategy in place.
The Takeaway
Your dog’s requirements will change as they get older. Give them your full focus and the love they want and need. Your dog’s golden years may be best appreciated by spending quality time with them and cherishing every minute you have with each other.
