It is difficult to imagine that the cute puppy in your arms will one day be a senior canine with specific physical and psychological engagement needs. Your canine may not be as swift as it once was. It may have difficulty hearing you walk through the door, or it may take several seconds longer to get up off the floor. So, how do you keep your canine happy and healthy throughout its senior years?
How to Keep Your Senior Dog Happy and Healthy
Dogs’ everyday needs change as they age. Senior pet care is highly different from puppy care, and some adaptations must be made to meet their psychological and physical demands. In addition, older canines are often better suited to a calmer way of life and are more tranquil and well-behaved. However, their age makes them extra at risk for wellness issues. For that reason, here are some basic senior pet care suggestions to keep them happy and healthy.
1. Be mindful of their nutritional needs.
Dogs’ nutritional needs shift as they age. Their digestive system has developed and can no longer process the same types or quantities of food that it once did. As a result, pick premium dog food designed particularly for senior dogs, which frequently has fewer calories. When your pet can no longer complete its regular meal or leaves treats uneaten, it’s time to alter its daily food consumption.
In addition, you should also check their gums and teeth. Senior canines are prone to canine dental concerns. If you neglect your canines’ dental needs, dangerous germs might increase and result in problems like gum disease and tooth decay. As a result, you must take them to a vet dentist regularly.
2. Minimize physical activity and exercise.
Although frequent strolls and other physical activities benefit pets of all ages, senior dogs should take a break to avoid exhaustion and health concerns such as arthritis and orthopedic ailments. You must consider getting shorter walks or skipping days if your dog is accustomed to routine strolls. Furthermore, you must look for exhaustion indicators and stop right away if you notice them in your pets.
3. Spend extra time with them regularly.
Senior pets appreciate a more tranquil and relaxed bonding session with you rather than a game of fetch that tires you and your dog. Allow them to rest on your lap as you watch TV or massage your dog. This reassures your dogs that you are still available to them at this age.
4. Be on the watch for any health concerns.
As a senior dog owner, you need to understand the health problems your pet is prone to based on its breed. You’ll be able to identify health risk indicators sooner in this manner. Additionally, a dog is usually anticipated to have a yearly examination with the veterinarian at the age of eight. This ensures your dogs obtain the necessary geriatric veterinary care as they age.
5. Take note of changes in their psychological condition.
Aging canines have a decrease in mental health. Mental deterioration in dogs is characterized by agitation, disorientation, circling, and restlessness. Moreover, dementia might develop as a secondary effect of a more severe illness like a brain tumor. If your senior pet shows any of these signs, you must immediately schedule an appointment with your vet. In extreme cases, veterinary procedures from excellent pet facilities are required to treat their illness. You can check out their page to learn what services they offer.
