It is difficult to imagine that the adorable puppy in your arms will someday be a senior canine with specific physical and mental engagement needs. Your pet may not be as energetic as it once was. It might have a problem hearing you walk through the door, or it may take several seconds longer to get up off the ground. So, how do you keep your dog happy and healthy throughout its golden years?
How to Keep Your Senior Dog Happy and Healthy
Pets’ everyday needs shift as they age. Senior canine care is quite different from puppy care, and some adjustments should be made to fulfill their psychological and physical demands. Additionally, older dogs are usually a better fit for a calmer way of living and are more peaceful and well-behaved. However, their age makes them extra at risk for health concerns. For that reason, here are some simple senior dog care ideas to keep them happy and healthy.
1. Be mindful of their nutritional needs.
Pets’ nutritional demands change as they age. Their digestive system has matured and can no longer process the same types or amounts of food that it once did. Therefore, select premium canine food made particularly for senior canines, which frequently have fewer calories. When your pet can no longer complete its regular meal or leaves treats uneaten, it’s time to adjust its daily food consumption.
Furthermore, you should also monitor their gums and teeth. Senior dogs are prone to canine dental problems. If you neglect your canines’ dental needs, harmful germs may increase and result in issues like gum disease and tooth decay. As a result, you must frequently take them to a specialist, like a veterinary dentist in Gardena.
2. Spend extra time with them regularly.
Senior canines appreciate a more peaceful and relaxed bonding session with you instead of a game of fetch that tires you and your pet. Allow them to sit on your lap as you watch TV or massage your pet. This comforts your pets that you are still available to them at this age.
3. Minimize physical activity and exercise.
Although regular strolls and other physical activities benefit dogs of all ages, seniors must take a break to avoid tiredness and health concerns such as joint inflammation and orthopedic disorders. You should consider getting shorter walks or skipping days if your dog is accustomed to regular walks. In addition, you must look for fatigue indicators and cease instantly if you discover them in your pets. Are you interested in geriatric dog care? There is more to read about here on this website.
4. Be on the watch for any health issues.
As a senior dog owner, you need to recognize the ailments your pet is prone to based on its breed. You’ll be able to detect health risk signs earlier in this manner. In addition, at the age of eight, a pet is typically anticipated to have a yearly checkup with the veterinarian. This ensures your dogs obtain the appropriate medication and maintenance they need as they age.
5. Take note of changes in their psychological condition.
Aging canines have a decrease in mental wellness. Mental deterioration in canines is distinguished by agitation, disorientation, circling, and uneasiness. Additionally, dementia may develop as an additional effect of a more severe ailment, like a brain tumor. If your senior pet displays any of these signs, you must quickly schedule a consultation with your veterinarian. In extreme cases, animal surgery is required to treat their ailment.
