As your furry friend grows older, be on the lookout for symptoms that might be indicative of a health issue and consider creative and gentle ways in which to maintain the health and happiness of your canine companion that has stood by you for years of happiness.
Stay alert to any problems that you dog begins to have with mobility, even rising from a sitting position or morning aches and pains. This is not difficult to relieve with an orthopedic dog bed and being sure that your dog does not jump from high places repeatedly.
Watch for signs that hearing may be declining. Not running to the door when the bell rings? Not coming to the kitchen when the canopener signals dinner is served? Check for infections and keep his ears clean of debris.
Coat and skin begin to dry out and perhaps fur is starting to thin as well as his skin. Add a supplement especially for senior dogs or consider an enriching shampoo and conditioner. Every little bit helps…even oatmeal supplements and lots of essential fatty acids.
Be aware of severe weight gain or loss and monitor your dog’s dental health as there may be problems with teeth and gums that are causing the problems. Remember too that weight gain puts undue stress on old bones, joints and cartilage!
Is your dog lethargic and seemingly depressed? This could be a sign of canine dysfunction syndrome, which basically equates to Alzheimer’s for dogs, although not exactly.
It is prudent to have your senior dog scheduled regularly for wellness examinations.
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