In later years, dogs are subject to the same problems and modifications as their senior human counterparts. Like humans, aged dogs are less tolerant of physical activity and exercise. They may be unable to move, have fatigue, or have joint pain.
As they get older, pets’ metabolisms naturally slow. Older dogs are likely to become overweight, which can make joint or muscle problems worse and be more sensitive to changes in temperature. Certain dogs who age may lose weight and lose muscles. This could be due to liver, kidney, dental, or endocrine disorders.
Taking Care of Senior Pets
Older dogs that have spent their entire lives serving and caring for your family members deserve the most loving care they can receive. When your pet is a senior, you might need to learn new ways of living. Older dogs need extra care in comparison to younger dogs. Follow this article for some tips on properly caring for your senior dog.
1. Regulate Activity
Your dog needs to engage in regular physical activity without overexertion to maintain strong muscles, joints, and bones. You’ll notice that their lungs and heart aren’t as strong as they were in the past. Be especially cautious when it’s hot or if your dog isn’t used to getting a lot of exercise.
While walking, ensure that you have water that your pet can drink and ensure that they get enough breaks. Having a sedentary senior dog increases the likelihood of weight gain and mobility problems.
If your pet is limping and needs to undergo a dog knee surgery, you need to get in touch with a pet surgeon to perform the procedure. You also need to regulate its activities prior and after the surgical procedure.
2. Healthy Weight
Achieving a healthy weight is vital for your pet’s overall health as they age as weight increases or decreases could set the stage for future health problems. If you’re looking to do this, make sure your pet is eating a healthy diet tailored to their needs and their age, and consider giving them nutritional supplements that go along with their diet.
If your pet does not lose weight despite a minimal amount of food intake, it may be suffering from an internal problem. You need to consult an internal veterinary medicine Stockton facility for advice and check-ups to address the ailment and save your pet from a fatal disease or disorder.
3. Dental Care
Dental issues will arise once your dog is of a certain age. Some dogs could even lose some teeth as a result. Of course, brushing your dog’s teeth can be beneficial and is an excellent idea to maintain her dental health.
If this task appears impossible and painful for you and your dog, offer her some treats for her teeth instead. Make sure to get your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year by your veterinarian.
4. Provide Comfort
If your dog of a certain age has lost their hearing or sight, they might have difficulty following directions, locating their beds, or getting around. Pets who are visually impaired or hearing impaired may get agitated quickly, causing them to grunt or snap. Make a place for your pet to be comfortable and teach them how to move around the home, making them secure and comfortable.
You can ensure your pet is cozy and warm at home as they get older by providing them with sweaters if it’s cold, softer bed bedding and a ramp over the stairs, and rugs on floors of any kind that might be slippery. Senior dogs shouldn’t be allowed to go outside in cold, hot, or wet weather.
Your pet, during old age, requires additional attention and affection, if you don’t have the time, you can consider subjecting them to the care of a geriatric pet in Stockton facility to address their needs.
5. Regular Vet Visit
Maintain your dog’s health by taking her regularly to the veterinarian. It’s a heartbreaking experience; however, as dogs get more senior as they age, their immune systems diminish, leading to a wide range of health issues. The doctor will not only be able to address any problems that are already there and treat them, but they’ll take steps to prevent any other issues from happening.
