Approximately fifty million dogs live with us in our country today. Millions of these dogs are over the age of seven and that number increases as we get older and canine healthcare gets more sophisticated.
An older dog doesn't need much more care than his younger counterpart. Depending on his condition, he may need different food, prescription medication, or nutritional supplements. With a keen eye towards subtle changes and the care he is used to, you can help his golden years remain happy and healthy.
Head/Brain: A senior dog's happiness is paramount to his overall health. Make sure his attitude and alertness are at their peak with needed attention to such things as exercise and play. However, keep an eye out for changes such as disorientation, confusion, change in sleep habits, loss of housetraining and other signs that may indicate senility, which may be treatable with prescription medications. Be sure to mention changes to your veterinarian.
Nose (Sense of smell): An adult dog's sense of smell is about 100X more powerful than our own. Senses wane, though, as your dog gets older, so he may not smell his food as well, and may not want to eat as he once did. Try adding broth or other flavoring to his food or warm it up in the microwave to bring out the food's odor and he may be more eager to eat.
Eyes: Senior eyes do not see as well as before and you might notice what you think are cataracts, which are actually a discoloration of the eye that occurs as your dog gets older. It is especially important to keep seniors' eyes clean by using an eye cleaning solution.
Ears: Senior dogs do not hear as they did when they were younger and may seem disobedient as a result. Also, it is essential to keep your senior's ears clean, since a senior may not be able to fight off infections as easily as a younger dog. Follow a regular ear cleansing protocol - why not make it part of your grooming routine?
Dental: We can't say enough about oral health for seniors. You'll notice your dog's teeth are not as sharp as they once were, but be wary of foul breath, heavy tartar buildup, or tooth loss, which can mean gum disease. Easy ways to help include; feeding dry food, hard treats and rawhide, and a regular dental program that includes brushing teeth and visits to the veterinarian.
Heart: Some older dogs are at risk for developing diseases of the heart. Know the signs so you can get early treatment from your veterinarian. Some common signs include weakness, reduced exercise tolerance, irregular or rapid breathing, coughing, lack of appetite, weight loss, abdominal swelling or a fainting episode.
Digestive System: Some seniors don't eat enough (see Sense of Smell, above); others have a propensity for obesity. Foods formulated for seniors with higher fiber and lower fat may help. Remember, though, that an older dog's digestive tract can be delicate, so if you change your pet's food, do it slowly.
Joints: Seniors of most species are prone to arthritis. Arthritis is used to describe inflammation, swelling and changes in joint formation associated with it. Watch for change in gait and see your veterinarian if you notice anything amiss. Help maintain your dog's healthy joints with supplements containing ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, and keep up some form of exercise. Other things that can assist your dog's joints include ramps, elevated feeders, and an orthopedic bed.
Skin and Haircoat: A senior's skin and haircoat tend to be dry. Make sure he has the right ratio of fatty acids to help keep his skin healthy.
Feet: Pets that chew or lick at their feet could have allergies, or be bored. Constant licking causes the foot to be moist all of the time, leading to hair loss, lesions, and infections. Use a product like Chew Stop to discourage licking.
© 2009 Drs. Foster and Smith, Inc.
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