How To Care For Your Senior Dog

Senior dog care by Love and Kisses Pet Sitting

Senior Dog Care

Our dogs are more than just furry animals who are generally happy to see us when we get home. They are our friends, confidants, comforters, and all-around best companions. So what can we do for them as they age? Their bodies change just like ours. Their joints ache, they lose energy, and their internal organs and systems start to develop illnesses. The first suggestion is to watch for changes in your dog’s behavior, eating habits, and energy levels. Whether these changes have been gradual or sudden, make careful observations and write a complete list. This list will help you remember everything you need to tell your vet. Don’t hope these changes will resolve themselves, call your vet and discuss what you’re seeing immediately. It is better to err on the side of caution.

The American Veterinarian Medical Association (AVMA), American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and Pet MD all state the following as common problems and solutions for aging dogs:

 Increased vet visits – Your aging dogs should begin seeing the vet twice year instead of once. This will aid in early detection of diseases. Your dog’s vaccination requirements may change with age as well.

 Weight increases – Change your dog’s diet and nutrition to easily digestible foods due to intestinal changes. Ask your vet about supplements to aid digestion and increase vitamin and nutrient absorption.

 Maintain mobility – Daily exercise is vital. Your dog needs to stay mobile, even if his pace has slowed. A body in motion tends to stay in motion. If your dog stays at home while you work, a great solution is to hire a pet sitter to take him for walks and exercise him. Love and Kisses Pet Sitting is the perfect provider of this!

 Environmental considerations – You may need to alter your dog’s physical environment in your home. Find ways for your dog to avoid frequently using stairs. Remove obstacles on the floor like baskets, floor lamps, magazine racks, etc. Also look into elevating her food and water dishes to relieve stress on her neck. If you notice your dog sliding on hard-surface floors, putting rugs down in the common walkways will help her maintain her footing. You should help your dog get on and off furniture like beds and couches and supply her with a floor-based bed of her own.

 Increase dental hygiene – Brush his teeth and provide toys and treats that help clean teeth and massage gums. These are some simply solutions to important medical issues our aging dogs face. Let’s do what we can to prolong a healthy life for our furry companions.

Love and Kisses Pet Sitting here in Indian Trail NC has had lots of experience in caring for senior pets.  Give us a call if you would like us to come and take your dog for a daily dog walk

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