Tips for Caring for Your Older Dog
Be sure to get your older dog a check-up every six months. This will ensure that your dog remains in the best of health.
Make sure your vet checks your older dog for: signs of heart disease, proper kidney and liver function, mammary and prostate gland changes, changes in vision and hearing, and decreased lung capacity.
Change of diet - feed your older dog the best food available. It is a good idea to feed your older dog twice per day instead of just once. Keep in mind that as your dog ages, so does his metabolism, so a need for calories is decreased. Levels of protein and fat should be low, yet the food should contain a high amount of fiber as older dogs are prone to constipation. (It is also a good idea to make sure your dog drinks plenty of water.) Try a "Senior Dog" formula and ask your vet for help in selecting the best food for your pets needs.
As dogs get older, their immune systems tend to weaken. Be sure that your dog is up to date on all vaccinations and that you are regularly protecting your pet against fleas and ticks.
Exercising your older dog will protect your dog from the loss of muscle tone and mass. Ramps, elevated feeders, and orthopedic beds will also help maintain your dogs muscles.
Attend to your dog's dental needs. Many older dogs develop dental disease, so it is a good idea to regularly brush your dogs teeth and have them professionally cleaned when your veterinarian recommends it.
Dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can aid with arthritis and help your dog maintain optimal health.
Keep in mind that coat changes and graying can occur in older dogs. If your dogs coat changes dramatically, have him checked out by your veterinarian as this can be a sign of serious diseases. Regular brushing will help keep your dogs coat shiny, as it increases oil production.
Older dogs become more sensitive to the weather. Have your dog wear a coat or sweater when going outdoors in winter, and keep your dog indoors during the summer months.
Keep your dog happy! Remember to include your dog in whatever activities you can.
This article was taken from the My Political Pooch March 2008 Newsletter. It can be accessed at www.MyPoliticalPooch.com
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