Tending to a Senior Pet
Senior dogs are subject to the same issues and modifications as their aging human counterparts. Like humans, older dogs are more resistant to physical activity and exercise. They may be less mobile, tired, or have painful joints.
As they get older, dogs’ metabolisms naturally slow down. Senior dogs are more likely to get fat which can cause muscle or joint problems to become more severe and more susceptible to temperature changes. A few dogs in their senior years might lose weight and muscle. It could be due to dental, renal, liver, or endocrine issues.
Taking Care of Senior Pets
Elderly dogs who have spent their lives loving and serving your family members deserve the most loving treatment possible. Should your dog be a senior, you might need to adopt new habits. Older dogs need different care than younger dogs. Read on for advice about how you can adequately care for your older dog.
1. Regulate Activity
To maintain strong muscles, joints, and bones, your dog needs to engage regularly and exercise, but no exaggeration. You’ll notice that their lungs and heart are less strong than they used to be. Take extra care when it’s hot or if your dog hasn’t been having a lot of exercises.
When walking, make sure you have water available if your dog needs to drink and make sure he gets sufficient breaks. A sedentary dog is at a higher risk for weight gain and mobility problems.
If your pet is suffering from a terminal disease like cancer, you need to consult and visit a vet in a pet oncology hospital to assess and give advice for allowable activities that are helpful for your pet’s condition.
2. Healthy Weight
It is vital to your dog’s health because weight gain or reduction can cause health problems. If you’re keen on achieving this, ensure that your dog is eating a high-quality diet suited to their needs and age, and think about giving them nutritional supplements that accompany their food.
To ensure your pet’s health and wellness, and if you are not planning to breed to have additional pets, you can subject them to a sterilization procedure. You can look for a facility that performs such procedures, you can type in “cat neuter near me” in your search bar and check for the best result available in your area.
3. Dental Care
Dental problems can be expected once your dog reaches a certain age. Some dogs may even lose some teeth as a result. Of course, brushing your dog’s mouth can be necessary and must be done to maintain her dental health.
If this is a task that seems impossible and painful for both you and your dog, give her some treats for her teeth instead. Make sure to get your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned every year by your veterinarian.
4. Provide Comfort
If your dog is old and has lost sight or hearing, they might be unable to follow the directions given, find their bed, or move about. Dogs with impaired vision or hearing may become agitated and startled, causing them to get angry or snap. Find a comfortable area for your dog to rest and show them how to navigate the home, making your pet safe and comfortable.
You can ensure your dog stays snug and warm inside their home as they age by providing them with sweaters when the temperature is cold, plus softer bedding, a ramp up the stairs, and rugs on any hardwood floors that may be slippery. Senior dogs shouldn’t be allowed to go outside in cold, hot, or rainy weather.
To provide more comfort and ease to your old pet, you can visit a facility that provides services and specializes in veterinary care for old pets. During old age, your pet requires additional attention, love and care.
5. Regular Vet Visit
Maintain your dog’s health by taking her to the vet every six months. It’s heartbreaking that as they grow more senior as they age, their immune systems diminish, leading to a range of health problems. The doctor will not just be able to treat any issues already there; however, they’ll be able to prevent other problems.