Taking Care Of A Senior, Old Dog

All the pet parents know that pets soon become more than just an outsider. They become a part of the family like a child, a baby or a sibling. Pet parents put in a lot of effort when it comes to taking care of their dogs.

The important thing to know is that senior dogs have different needs than the younger ones. As a dog ages, they become less mobile, their hearing and sight aren't as good as they used to be and they may become less active and energetic. They become more prone to various diseases. Still, with some love and care dogs can spend their golden years healthy and happy. Your elderly dog may no longer be that cute, small puppy but it’s always been your best friend. It will always appreciate the extra attention and care you keep to keep your elderly pooch comfortable in its golden years.

When Is Your Dog Considered An Old Dog?

Ageing is a normal part of life, and at some point, in time, all dogs become seniors. When your dog can be called senior will depend upon its size and genetics. Large breed dogs become seniors earlier (around 7 years) with some giant ones starting at 5 or 6 years of age. On the other hand, smaller breeds become seniors much later in life, around 8 years of age or so.

No matter how well they are cared for, old dogs are vulnerable to ageing related health issues. Here is some practical advice on how to ensure that your faithful furry friend enjoys a comfortable and happy retirement.

Some Useful Tips For Senior Dog Care

Dental Care

A good dental care and hygiene is important throughout your pet’s life, but it becomes more crucial as your pooch ages. Onset of painful dental and gum disease can be avoided, which may hinder eating. Possible signs of dental disease are excessive salivation, foul-smelling breath or difficulty in eating.

Exercise

Often senior dogs develop pain and discomfort during exercise they used to enjoy. It is a good idea to take your pet for short walks regularly and keep an eye on its breathing. To keep its brain active, try interactive food games etc.

Regular Vet Visits

You should take your dog for a check-up once a year but with a senior dog, you may need to go more frequently as they are more prone to age related health issues. Certain breeds like Retriever or German Shepherds are likely to develop a condition called hip dysplasia and certain types of cancer. An early detection can help treat before it becomes significant. It is also suggested that pet parents get yearly blood work done for their senior dogs.

Vaccination

An old dog’s weaker immune system means they may have different vaccination needs. You can discuss it with your vet. Your vet may also suggest dog supplements for dogs and other mineral and vitamin related supplements for. An old dog will certainly benefit from these.

Parasite Control

Due to a weaker immune system, senior dogs may not be able to fight off parasites like ticks etc. or heal at a faster rate. Keep a watchful eye.

Give What Your Ageing Dog’s Body Needs

Since their metabolism becomes slow, they need fewer calories. Special diets can be considered for those suffering from heart or kidney diseases. Food should be nutritious, simple and easy to digest. Your senior pet may need you to wet it’s food so that it is easier to chew and digest. Occasional supplements like fish oil, multivitamin supplements, omega fatty acids etc. may be used. There are many other dog supplements for dogs that can be helpful.

A Senior Pet Friendly Home

Here are some thoughtful changes that can be very helpful for old dogs. Placing a soft rug or mat over hard flooring will help dogs suffering from arthritis feel comfortable. Your dog doesn’t need to strain its neck with a higher placed food and water bowl, ramps near the staircase will help dogs with painful joints.

A More Comfortable Bedding

Most young dogs love to lie down or sleep and dream away on hard floors, but as they age, they are likely to become stiff and achy on such surfaces. A fat and soft orthopaedic bed, memory foam mattress, and a warm thick bed can provide all the comfort and support an ageing dog’s body and bones need. Heated beds are also available. They may help a senior dog with stiffness and joint pain and especially during the winters.

Pay Attention To Your Senior Dog

Keep a check on your pet’s appetite, weight changes, behaviour. A senior dog’s appetite and weight often fluctuate. Always keep your vet well informed about these changes. Besides, check its body for lumps, lesions, bumps and visit your vet as soon as you come across any of these.

Show Your Old Dog Lots And Lots Of Love And Affection

Think about the unconditional love your old dog has shown you over the years you’ve spent together. Now it is your chance to return it tenfold. Be there for your ageing best friend and take out time from your busy schedule. There will still be many opportunities to create memories. Your love, care and attention is free and can be given in abundance, but it’s priceless to your dog. Special time together is what our happy senior dogs cherish most. Fortunately, that’s very simple for us to deliver!

Order Old Dog Supplies Online

Dog supplements for dogs, mild shampoos for an ageing dog’s skin or special memory foam beds and anything else, everything is available online at the PawsforTails store.

Conclusion

The lifespan of a dog is never long enough, but as a pet parent you can help your senior or old dog avoid feeling and showing his age. Take these steps, follow these suggestions and make this phase of your senior dog’s life as satisfying as any other. It may sound like a lot of work to care for your ageing friend, such devotion comes with its own sweet rewards, including knowing that you’ve done everything you can for a companion that has loved you unconditionally and had been dependent on you from the day one.

All the pet parents know that pets soon become more than just an outsider. They become a part of the family like a child, a baby or a sibling. Pet parents put in a lot of effort when it comes to taking care of their dogs.

The important thing to know is that senior dogs have different needs than the younger ones. As a dog ages, they become less mobile, their hearing and sight aren't as good as they used to be and they may become less active and energetic. They become more prone to various diseases. Still, with some love and care dogs can spend their golden years healthy and happy. Your elderly dog may no longer be that cute, small puppy but it’s always been your best friend. It will always appreciate the extra attention and care you keep to keep your elderly pooch comfortable in its golden years.