The Aging of the Canine
The Aging of the Canine
The process of aging in your dog begins with the first breath of life. There is a special bond created during the intervening years between a dog and his human companion. Unconditional love and affection exist. It is sometimes difficult to accept that there is no reversal of the aging process, either for a human or a dog. So, in order to deal with the changes that are inevitable, it is important to realize that the needs of your canine friend will be different than his needs during youth. Most times, changes in health take place in a gradual way, almost unnoticeably. But, it is a good idea to have your dog checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis. These checkups are critical to a pet’s health.
Older dogs face a number of health and behavior related changes that sometimes have very direct impacts on the way that owners care for them. Consider the following age related issues to determine how the relationship that you have with your canine companion will be fulfilling and enjoyable.
Arthritis: This is a natural part of the aging process for the senior canine. Your dog may show signs of morning stiffness, reluctance to climb stairs, and difficulty moving. You may decide to supplement your pet’s diet with herbs to support joint health, or prefer the allopathic route suggested by a traditional veterinarian, should traditional medication be directed. Remember that exercise should not be eliminated, merely modified.
Is it possible for canines to get cavities? It is thought that the surfaces of the dog’s teeth are harder and less vulnerable to pathogens than those of humans. Another contributing factor may be that the dog is believed not to have amylase, a digestive enzyme, in their saliva as do humans. Human digestion begins the moment food enters the mouth. In a dog, the digestive process starts further along the intestinal tract. Some research has since discovered salivary enzymes. However, dogs are subject to the buildup of plaque on their teeth, which then translates to accumulated tartar. If a bacterial infection is left untreated, it may damage the kidneys, liver, heart, and lungs, and eventually lead to tooth loss. Have the vet check your dog’s teeth and mouth for signs of periodontal disease. Often you will see evidence of a heavy brown deposit of calculus on the teeth. Sometimes the gums bleed and teeth are loose.
Will my dog’s bladder grow weaker? Quite often, what is thought to be a weak bladder is actually a bladder infection or the beginning of a kidney related problem. Bladder infections can be common, regardless of age, and kidney disease is very pronounced in the older dog. Two of the most common problems in the older dog are bad heart and bad kidneys. Excessive drinking and urination may signal a problem. These symptoms might also be indicative of diabetes in your dog.
Coat and Skin: Thin coat and thick skin are two signs that your canine has entered the golden years. Skin is far less pliable and elastic. Benign tumors and fatty tissue tumors may develop. Your dog’s muzzle will grey and the fur on the ears may thin considerably. Oil producing glands do not work very well and the skin and fur may become dry. Consider using a dietary supplement. Essential fatty acids are likely to help with this.
Do aging dogs have differing dietary requirements? Yes. They should have less total protein but a higher quality protein, overall. As dogs move through life, they have differing nutritional requirements. The rate at which your dog is able to metabolize the nutrients is very different in later years. Sometimes, dogs will benefit from an increased amount of fiber added to the diet on a regular basis. Excess protein produces more nitrogen waste by-products, which in turn puts greater pressure on the kidneys. Dogs with renal ailments might require a prescription dog food, or small amounts of high-quality protein, found in eggs, yogurt, tofu, asparagus, lentils, cottage cheese, and hard mild cheeses, together with a lot of raw, grated vegetables. Kidney related problems demand a low protein diet. Cardiac problems require low sodium diets. Very often the two maladies go hand in hand.
Nails: In the older dog, nails become more brittle and should be clipped shorter and more regularly. Your dog may not be exercising nearly as rigorously and the nails may not wear down as quickly. They may also have a tendency to split. The pads on the bottoms of the feet may dry out and become cracked. There are moisturizing formulas that you can apply topically, or add to your dog’s food to alleviate any discomfort.
Calluses? Yes, even your aging dog is subject to this inconvenience. Since your canine will probably be spending more time lounging around and sleeping. Less activity and more down time will cause rubbing and a build up of skin, just as in humans.
Heart health, Hypothyroidism: As your canine companion ages, these ailments become more common. The first signs that something is different in your dog may be shortness of breath, coughing, panting, exercise intolerance, and weight fluctuations. Have your veterinarian do a check up. An early diagnosis and medication will allow for a more normal life.
The Eyes have it! Glaucoma and cataracts may affect your senior dog. There are some breeds that are genetically predisposed to contracting degenerative eye diseases. Watch carefully for any signs that your dog may have impaired eyesight. Differences in the eye’s appearance, color changes, cloudiness are clues that there may be a problem. Clear any discharge away from the eyes when it occurs.
Can You Hear Me Now? Hearing begins to decline with age in pets, as with humans. If your dog is unresponsive to voice, or shows some aggression or responds inappropriately to stimuli, he may be losing his ability to hear. Sometimes an animal may even bark out of context. Shaking the head continuously might indicate a problem.
You can have a terrific impact on the health and happiness of your canine companion. Enjoy the time together and rewards will come to both of you through care, kindness, and respect for each other.
Read even more about aging dog companions in Look at those Choppers!
