Senior Dog Health Care

Senior dog health care can be challenging but is vital if you want your dog to live as long as possible and without any pain.

Dogs, like people, naturally have a tendency to suffer from ailments as they age. While we can minimize and at times prevent this, sometimes it is out of our control. However as a responsible dog owner you will want to do all you can to make the rest of your senior dog’s life a happy one.

You can slow down the aging process through regular vet visits to check for things like cancers, arthritis, hepatitis, kennel cough and distemper. By applying regular heartworm and flea treatment you’ll also ensure the longevity of your dog’s life. It goes without saying that vaccinations should also be up to date through the dog’s life.

Like humans, dogs will tend to live longer if they live healthy. Therefore a good diet and daily exercise is vital for maintaining vitality in any dog, regardless of breed or size.

Ideally you should purchase the best quality dog food that you can afford. Cheap generic and even most supermarket brands contain additives that are not ideal. However if this is your only choice, ensure you mix it up with some raw meat and chicken bones regularly. These also look after the dental health of your dog.

Hearing loss and visual problems are a sign of old age and although they can not always be avoided, owners can work to make their dog’s life more comfortable by perhaps bringing it inside more often where the dog will not become scared. Dogs also generally feel safer when they are near their owner.

Older dogs may not be able to negotiate stairs well so try not to keep your dog in a spot where he needs to use the stairs.

Different breeds have a different life expectancy. Some breeds are only expected to live for up to 10 years while others will last beyond 20 years.

Many vets conduct what is called a geriatric screening of dogs when they research a certain age (depending on breed and size). This process involves a physical examination, blood tests and other tests which the vet sees as appropriate. This examination gives the vet an overall view of the health of your dog and points out any issues that need addressing.

Senior dogs are a joy to live with, whether you have had the dog since it was a puppy or whether you adopt a senior dog, they are sure to enjoy the rest of their lives in your loving care.