Understanding how to care for your senior dog can have its challenges. From understanding dog behaviour to a supportive nutrition regime, here we will go through step by step on what to look for and how to provide the best care for your dog.
Becoming a senior; that time in life where you can actually get away with sleeping too much, get extra cuddles and eat whatever you doggone want. Well, it is the same for our furry friends as well, a time to retire the dog zoomies and extensive hikes and get to know their beloved dog beds a little better.
We tapped into an article by vetSTREET to help get to the bottom of senior dog care, what to expect and how to help our dog during this transitional time.
Avoid Extensive Activity.
Exercise is crucial at every age, but instead of a long hike perhaps a shorter, flatter dog walk around the neighbourhood or favourite park would suffice. Too much exercise will equal an increased amount of inflammation, which leads to unnecessary pain and other health concerns.
Reduce Stressors.
Having a familiar environment is so important as your dog ages and starts to lose the senses that they have relied on throughout their life. Be sure to make your dog as comfortable as possible with soft blankets, orthopedic dog beds and keep a normal routine.
Make Regular Vet appointments.
Be sure to make regular vet appointments to ensure that there are no underlying illnesses that could cause more discomfort than the typical. Speak to your Vet about how often and the kinds of tests needed for general upkeep.
Be Proactive about Behaviour Changes.
Any kind of change in dog behaviour (i.e. barking, growling, panting, not eating, incontinence, etc.) could mean that there is an underlying illness. In which case, take note of this behaviour, the surroundings and anything that is out of the ordinary. Bring these concerns to your Vet for further inspection.
Nutritional Support.
Consult with your Vet about the appropriate food for your senior dog. Switching food too quickly without consulting a professional could hinder your pooch’s already vulnerable wellbeing. In addition to a senior diet, you may also want to consider supplements, such as fish oil to help reduce joint and muscle inflammation.
Click here to enjoy the full vetSTREET article.
Even though our furry friends may know the tricks of the trade by the time they are older, it is inevitable, they need our love and care just as much, if not more when they become seniors. Besides, dogs know unconditional love very well and have given you a lot of it when you needed it the most. Why not return it twofold?
Go ahead, hug your pup, no matter the age.
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