Caring for Senior Dogs

Posted on by Animal Dogtor

It’s not easy to admit that our beloved dog is aging. You’ve enjoyed each stage of their life from the puppy phase to adulthood. As your dog ages, you may have some concerns about your pet and how to care from them as they reach their senior years.

It is essential to pay attention to your pet as they age, so you can recognize the signs that aging is beginning to affect your dog. There are a variety of steps you can take to maintain your dog’s quality of life and help them live a full life throughout their senior years.

Manage Their Weight

Just like with humans, maintaining a healthy weight makes physical activity more comfortable and more enjoyable for your dog and is less stressful on their joints. Younger dogs can carry a little extra weight around, but as your dog ages, this extra weight on their legs or belly can begin to hinder their health and place stress on their bones, joints, and internal organs.

 Along with maintaining a healthy diet, it is essential to maintain a healthy portion of food for your dog and a regular frequency for feeding them. If you allow your dog to eat in excess, they will continue to do so. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about any changes in your dog’s diet and get their recommendations on what a healthy and natural option is for your dog’s diet.

Make Sure They Get a Diet Rich in NutritionCaring for Senior Dogs

Consuming a healthy and highly nutritious diet is vital to the health and overall well-being of your dog. When looking for the best food choice for your dog, be sure to avoid dog foods that have additives. It’s best to seek out dog food options with natural ingredients for optimal nutritional value. Consult with your veterinarian to get recommendations on the best natural dog food for your senior dog.

Keep Up with Their Dental Care

It is essential to keep their teeth healthy and free of conditions like gingivitis. Regular brushing helps to keep your dog’s teeth clear of tartar and also prevents bacteria from their teeth entering their bloodstream and having damaging effects on their internal organs.

You can purchase healthy dog treats for your pet to promote food oral care and you can also bring your dog to your veterinarian for a yearly cleaning and checkup to ensure their teeth are in good condition.

Regular Exercise is Still Important

In some cases, people think that older dogs should get less exercise. Even if your dog can’t play the same way they did as a puppy or may only be able to walk instead of run, they still require regular exercise to help keep their heart strong and healthy. Exercise is essential in keeping the joints fluid and also helps to preserve a good range of motion, especially in arthritic joints.

Be sure to adjust their physical activities to meet your dog’s lessening physical abilities.

Veterinarian Care for Senior Dogs

Your dog is your companion, and it is your responsibility to ensure they remain in good health, especially throughout their senior years. Senior dogs should be seen every 6 months for an exam and senior blood work.  It’s important to keep in mind that every 6 months to us is anywhere from 2.5 to 5 years to a dog, depending on their body weight.

Help your dog enjoy their golden years by keeping them healthy and happy by following these tips and by bringing your pet to The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro to take advantage of our proactive senior care program for your dog. Contact us today to schedule your senior dog’s next exam!