When Your Pet Gets Older

   Posted: March 5, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Views: 459 | Rating: Not Rated

Just as elderly people have special needs; dogs require more care as they approach their senior years. By the time your feisty puppy reaches those latter years, you will need to be prepared to take extra steps to safeguard his health.

Dogs are actually living longer now than they ever have in the past years. Breakthroughs in veterinary technology are offering dogs a better quality of life in their final years. When your dog begins to get older, you should see a veterinarian on a regular basis for health screenings.

While you can’t stop the again process, you can slow it down a little. You can take active steps to slow aging by giving your dog regular mental and physical stimulation. Play catch with your dog to get him up and moving once in a while. Massage your dog to ease the pain of stiff joints. Massage also improves circulation which will help your dog’s body function optimally.

You should feed your elderly dog a well balanced diet, with a food specifically designed for older dogs. Nutritionists recommend reducing the protein in a dog’s diet when kidney problems begin. If your dog has no kidney problems, choose a dog food rich in protein to keep your dog strong and healthy.

As your dog ages, you should continue to take him out for exercise. Just be cautious not to push your pet too hard. Let your dog set the pace so the walk is enjoyable rather than draining. If your dog can’t walk well, provide frequent short walks instead of one long walk. Even when walking is difficult, your dog needs the stimulation that a walk provides.

You can also help your elderly dog by providing frequent grooming. As a dog ages, grooming becomes a more relaxing process. The movement of a brush promotes good circulation and the companionship alleviates stress.

It is also important to provide an aging dog with soft bedding. As the dog’s body ages, arthritis can cause joints to become painful. You should make extra efforts to offer simple comforts in your dog’s later years. Buy a comfortable bed, and provide a soft, warm blanket for your pet.

You should also be aware that many elderly dogs suffer from urinary incontinence. If your dog seems to be having accidents more often, it is likely because he has lost some control over his bladder. Be patient with your dog and give him more frequent opportunities to go outside and use the bathroom.

The most vital thing you can offer a dog in his later year is a loving, nurturing home. Companionship makes a crucial difference in the lifespan of our canine friends. Dogs that are loved and cherished live longer, healthier lives.

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