Pet dogs today live longer than ever, thanks to nutrition and veterinary care advancements. Nevertheless, similar to humans, they may develop age-related problems and difficulties as they become older, resulting in a different set of needs. The question is, how can you guarantee your senior dog is happy and healthy?

Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy

All dogs inevitably reach senior status since aging is an unavoidable part of life. The critical point is that aging canines have different needs than younger dogs. To ensure the health and wellness of your elderly dog, you will need to take some more measures beyond the norm.

Following these guidelines will offer you an understanding of what works best for your older dog’s health and happiness.

Adjust Their Diet As Needed

Like people, canine dietary demands and tastes tend to shift with age. If that’s the case with your dog, changing their mealtimes might help. Snacks eaten frequently throughout the day can be a great way to attract picky eaters. If they appear delighted with their current diet, keep giving it to them.

Nonetheless, if your dog has worn or damaged teeth, switching from dry to wet food may help them eat again. Additionally, senior dogs have a higher risk of developing cancer as their immune systems decline. Therefore, if your dog is revealing any signs and symptoms of health issues, you should consult a dog oncologist in Santa Rosa.

Keep Them Active

It’s crucial for senior dogs to stay up to date-with their exercise routines. Loss of muscular mass in dogs causes frailty syndrome, which has been connected to a quickened aging process. There may be something wrong if your dog’s activity level falls over time.

Dog owners must keep an eye out for discomfort signs in elderly pets and see a veterinarian experienced in geriatric care to determine the best course of action. Pet owners continue to think that “slowing down” is a sign of aging. However, when this occurs, it is a sign of untreated pain. If you want more information about geriatric care services, visiting the vet’s website is best.

Update Their Vaccination and Parasite Protection

Your dog’s age makes no difference in protecting against parasite infestations, including fleas, ticks, lice, and worms. If your pet is parasite-free, the excellent care you’ve been giving must continue.

Nevertheless, vaccinations for elderly dogs aren’t necessary as frequently. Even though it’s recommended every three years, you must always ask your vet for their particular recommendation for your dog.

Always Monitor Their Health

It doesn’t take a veterinarian to identify the symptoms of several illnesses that affect elderly dogs. You need to watch your dog’s health in between appointments with the vet. It’s time to make an appointment with the veterinarian if any of these signs continue.

• Shortness of breath or other difficulty breathing
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Stiffness or limping
• Weakness
• Changes in appetite, water intake, or urination
• Lumps
• Coughing

Keep the contact information of a veterinary lab like Montecito Veterinary Center handy in case your pet is sick or injured. Since one may never know what will happen, it is vital to have an emergency strategy in place.

The Takeaway

Your dog’s requirements will change as they grow older. Give them your full focus and the love they want and need. Your dog’s golden years could be best appreciated by spending quality time with them and cherishing every minute you have with each other.