Senior Dogs

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It is an inevitable fact that we all grow older and our dogs are no exception. If you are a dog lover and share your life with these wonderful creatures, you will at sometime in your journey care for a senior dog.

In the last eighty years or so the average lifespan of dogs has increased from seven years to twelve years or longer. By expanding your knowledge of and paying close attention to your older dog’s health, you can ensure them a long and comfortable life.

When Is Your Dog a Senior?

Dogs age at different rates, so sometimes it is hard to know when to sign them up for their Canine AARP Membership.

In general it is noted that smaller dogs tend to mature faster in their younger years, but age slower as they grow older. This pattern is seen to be the opposite for many larger breeds.

 A larger breed dog may show signs of aging as early as seven years while a smaller dog may not show the same signs until ten or twelve years old. One of the largest breeds of dog the Great Dane is considered a senior as early as five years and has one of the shortest life spans.

Common Health Problems For Senior Dogs

1. Joint and bone problems: These problems are usually caused by arthritis, an inflammation of the joints. Your veterinarian can suggest an anti-inflammatory drug to help reduce the discomfort.
2. Reduction in metabolism: As your senior dog slows down, you may have to adjust their diet to compensate for the reduced energy levels. Buy the best quality dog food you can afford and avoid greasy table scraps.
3. Difficulty seeing and hearing: In many cases, older dogs develop cataracts or glaucoma. Cataracts become obvious by the appearance of a cloudy film over the eye and tend to reflect light. The pressure on the optic nerve caused by glaucoma if left untreated will lead to blindness.
4. Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Loose stools or vomiting not secondary to a dietary change can be a sign of other health problems. A normally house broken dog that starts urinating in the house may be a sign of loss of cognitive function. If the urinating is excessive it could be a sign of other health issues.
5. Problems with teeth and gums: Good oral hygiene is necessary to maintain your dogs health. Brush your senior dogs teeth regularly and have them professionally cleaned as needed, poor oral hygiene can lead to many other health problems.
6. Skin issues: As our dogs age their skin begins to thin and their coat becomes mottled and patchy. Brush their coat daily and ask your veterinarian for special shampoos if needed.
7. Liver, kidney, lung and heart disease: The function of many major organs can be taxed in our older dogs. The heart, lungs, liver and kidneys all become less efficient and the immune system can become weak and vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. Serious health problems may develop over time with the symptoms showing gradually. It is your responsibility as their human to watch for any unusual changes and treat as needed.
8. Cognitive Functions: As with humans, dogs as they age can lose their cognitive functions. Signs may include such behavioral changes as: Walking around aimlessly, not remembering their humans, loss of housebreaking skills, fear of loud noises, and aggression. Some cases of aggression or fearfulness are so severe that the dog may become a danger to themselves or others. In these cases euthanasia may be the only humane answer.

Important Tips for Keeping Your Senior Dog Healthy

1. Find the best veterinarian in your community and establish a good working relationship with them. It is advisable for senior dogs to see their vet every six months rather than yearly. Ask your vet if your dog can be vaccinated once every three years rather than yearly, as recommended by the major veterinary associations.
2. Become well educated on the common conditions, health problems and therapies used to treat senior dogs. Be alert to symptoms and be prepared to discuss all treatment options.
3. Consider feeding your dog a home-prepared meal or two small meals of the best dog food you can afford. Don’t overfeed as this can lead to obesity, which can create health problems and shorten their life.
4. Consider the use of dietary supplements such as vitamins or glucosamine/chondroitin for the treatment of arthritis. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
5. Provide you senior dog with adequate exercise. Adjust your routine to their changing abilities.
6. Be diligent in controlling fleas and ticks. Monthly baths and flea medication will keep your dog healthy and comfortable. Keep their environment clean.

Senior dogs can live a happy, safe and comfortable life with a little extra care and attention. Make your senior dog a part of your life and do all you can to keep them happy, interested and active. The love they bring to your human life is all the reward anyone should need. Senior dogs ROCK!