Now that you're dog has shown you so much love and brought you so much joy throughout your many years together, it's time that you return the favor when the dog reaches his elder years. Caring for an older dog is much like caring for an elderly person. Knowing how to do that will help comfort your dog immensely.
What's old for a dog?
The first thing that you've probably heard is the seven-year rule (that your dog ages seven times faster than a human). While this is pretty much accurate, some dogs (or breeds of dogs) show signs of aging earlier than others. So, you're going to have to know what signs to look for to ascertain whether your dog has officially reached his "golden years."
Senility is not just for humans.
If your dog is older than seven (human years), then he's officially becoming older. While some dogs may show signs far after seven, you may notice some of the following characteristics once he reaches an older age. You may notice that your dog has lost some of his housetraining skills. He may soil or wet the area, especially through the night when lying down. He may have trouble chewing food due to loose teeth and sore gums. He may suffer from cataracts or even partial or full blindness. He may gain weight more easily. Weigh your dog every couple of months. If you notice large lumps under his skin, it's advised that you consult your veterinarian, as this may be a sign of a possible tumor or cancer. Your dog may even become grumpier.
While it's impossible to cure all of the maladies that accompany age, you can comfort your dog and make his older life enjoyable.
Medication can help
There are many drugs out there that can help your dog. While it's not advised to give your pet too many medications, there are some that can help if he's suffering joint or hip pain. If your dog seems extra tired or sore one day, go ahead and skip his daily exercise routine. If it last more than a couple of days, talk with your vet. Install a partial ramp over the steps to and from your house so that your dog doesn't have to deal with the harsh incline on his joints. Massage and rub your dog's muscles. Studies have shown that physio- or hydrotherapy can be extremely beneficial in your dog's elder years.
Grooming offers relief
Be sure to clip your older dog's nails as he probably doesn't run about as much as when he was younger. The nails won't naturally keep trimmed down, so you'll have to be sure to keep his nails under control. If you don't want to do it yourself, veterinarians usually provide this service. Your dog may become senile. While this is normal, some cases are so severe that they are compared to Alzheimer's. There are dog drugs, like those given to human Alzheimer's patents that have proven effective.
Routines are welcome
Be sure that you keep your dog on a regular routine. Exercise him daily. Control his weight. Buy high-quality food and groom, pet and cuddle with your dog frequently. Visit your vet at least once a year to screen for diseases. Buy an orthopedic bed mat for your older dog.
Disabilities can occur
If your dog is blind or nearly there, you can make a home solution of vinegar mixed with water to spray (about nose high) onto door frames and sofas so he doesn't run into them. Also, don't move furniture around. For deaf dogs, tell everyone (especially children), not to approach your dog too quickly. Be sure that the dog sees anyone coming towards him.
Caring for an older dog can be just as hard as caring for a puppy. Your dog will take kindly to the adaptations you've made, which will make his "golden years" truly shine.
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at dog gifts and toys for dog lovers.
Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
Of the thirty-three terrier breeds (most of which were first... Read More
The most important things in dog training are consistency, keeping... Read More
I have encountered folks who have complained to me about... Read More
We have a long history with domesticated animals and even... Read More
If you have never seen a Shar Pei before, the... Read More
Your cat scratching at your furniture can not only leave... Read More
Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky... Read More
Have you ever been to a dog kennel and listen... Read More
Many parents know that the best way for children to... Read More
Rabbits are one of the most popular pets, apart from... Read More
As all cat owners know, a feline can be a... Read More
Get to know your beloved dog better with these insightful... Read More
You may have heard that pets have been scientifically proven... Read More
Your dog seems to be driving you up the wall... Read More
The main ways a puppy will play with another dog... Read More
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten... Read More
You may be hearing more talk these days about "Essential... Read More
There are many of us who consider our pets as... Read More
It is Winter time again, a time of the year... Read More
Are there so many great dog breeds out there that... Read More
The shutting and opening door trick can be taught to... Read More
"Where's the harm? My cat seems to enjoy chocolate and... Read More
As pets go hamsters are fairly easy to take care... Read More
The aim of a Westie rescue centre such as the... Read More
Remember when you first met your dog? He was fresh... Read More
In a recent discussion about pet safety, the services provided... Read More
Do I Need A Quarantine Tank?Ah, yes, the often dismissed... Read More
Beautiful as they are, Boston Terriers have some genetic traits... Read More
To teach a dog to jump, with your right hand... Read More
We've recently moved into a new apartment complex that really... Read More
Most parrot people are aware of some of the basic... Read More
Pet's, any kind of pet can be a welcome addition... Read More
Are you thinking about getting some discus then and want... Read More
Get to know your beloved dog better with these insightful... Read More
Our Charlie's dog health was a very important issue to... Read More
Knowing how to feed your betta is fundamental, because doing... Read More
Just like children, westie puppies learn through play. Playing games... Read More
A poorly trained dog can embarrass its owner and offend... Read More
Training your dog to obey commands is an important part... Read More
Horse training can be a relatively mysterious subject to people... Read More
I have had Goldens and Black Labs for many years,... Read More
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten... Read More
Dogs and kids, it's a combination that at it's best... Read More
You've seen them in movies and on TV shows, and... Read More
No one knows your dog better than you, and as... Read More
Allergies to dogs can strike anyone at any age, yet... Read More
There are lots of ways a horse can go lame.... Read More
While your friends and family are amazed that you're raising... Read More
Some say it started with the Taco Bell dog. A... Read More
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. They're also very inquisitive... Read More
Pet |