Complete Care For Your Aging Dog

Dogs are not just pets; they are important members of our families. As our loyal companions grow older, they may require additional care and attention to ensure their quality of life. Just like humans, senior dogs experience various age-related health issues that need to be managed properly. In this article, we will explore complete care for your aging dog and provide helpful tips and insights that will assist you in making your furry friend's golden years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Understanding Aging in Dogs

Dogs age at a faster rate than humans. Depending on their breed and size, they typically reach their senior years between the ages of 7 and 10. As they age, their bodies undergo several changes both internally and externally. It is crucial for pet owners to recognize and understand these changes in order to provide appropriate care for their aging dogs.

Proper Nutrition and Diet

One of the most important aspects of caring for an aging dog is providing them with a well-balanced and age-appropriate diet. Senior dogs often require specially formulated food that aids in the management of weight, joint health, and overall vitality. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your senior dog's specific needs.

Complete Care for Your Aging Dog

by Amy Shojai(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4656 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	316 pages
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Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Regular check-ups with a veterinarian become increasingly crucial as your dog ages. During these visits, your vet will be able to detect any underlying health issues or age-related conditions before they become serious. These check-ups also allow your vet to provide recommendations for preventive measures and necessary treatments to ensure your dog's well-being.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

While it is true that senior dogs may not have the same energy levels they had in their younger years, it is still important to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Appropriate exercise helps to maintain muscle tone, joint flexibility, and overall health. Engaging in activities such as short walks, gentle play sessions, and puzzle toys can help keep your aging dog mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled.

Managing Joint Health

Joint problems are common in aging dogs. Arthritis, for example, can cause discomfort and pain, hindering your dog's mobility. It is crucial to monitor your dog's joint health and provide appropriate care. This can include providing joint supplements, incorporating low-impact exercise, and ensuring your dog has a comfortable bed or resting area that supports their joints.

Dental Care

Dental health is often overlooked, but it is a critical aspect of caring for an aging dog. Periodontal disease and tooth loss can cause pain and discomfort in your senior dog. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to maintain good oral health. Additionally, you can promote dental hygiene at home by brushing your dog's teeth regularly and providing appropriate dental chews or treats.

Emotional Well-being

As dogs age, they may experience anxiety or other emotional changes. Providing a safe and comfortable environment is crucial for their emotional well-being. Ensure that your dog has a quiet place to rest, away from loud noises or high activity areas. Additionally, providing them with mental stimulation through interactive toys or puzzles can help keep their minds sharp and alleviate any boredom or anxiety they may experience.

Caring for an aging dog requires dedication, attention, and love. By understanding the changes that occur in your dog's body and implementing appropriate care, you can provide them with a happy and fulfilling life during their senior years. Remember, your dog has been there for you throughout their life, and it is our duty as pet owners to ensure their well-being until the very end.

References

• "Caring for Senior Dogs: Tips and Guidelines" - American Kennel Club
• "Senior Dog Care" - American Veterinary Medical Association
• "12 Ways to Keep an Older Dog Active" - PetMD

Complete Care for Your Aging Dog

by Amy Shojai(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4656 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	316 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Advances in veterinary medicine have nearly doubled how long a dog lives. But old dogs have unique health and emotional needs, senior dog food and nutrition, and aging dog medical care. A longer life means old dogs suffer age-related conditions such as dog cancer, kidney failure in dogs, dog diabetes, arthritis in dogs, stroke in dogs, and dementia in dogs, all of which can be successfully managed with your loving assistance.

KUDOS!

"Chock-full of lifesaving and life-enhancing facts--but incredibly moving and readable--the book is guaranteed to help your beloved pet live a happier, healthier, fuller life. While this comprehensive and groundbreaking book presents cutting edge medical information, Shojai makes sure that it's proven and practical. Captivating true stories of 'successful agers' will motivate you to make sure you give your pets the best care possible." --Dr. Marty Becker, Resident Veterinarian on Doctor Oz Show, and Good Morning America

"Once again Amy has done it! VERY important, useful and valuable information in a concise, easy to read work. Our pets are living longer--and with this interesting and complete book--healthier lives. If you have a middle aged to older pet, this book is a Must Have!" --DR. JIM HUMPHRIES, Veterinarian, Contributing Editor to CBS's The Early Show, and National Veterinary Spokesperson

"Need a quick reference? Complete Care for Your Aging Dog provides a practical, easy-to-read guide about health care for the aging dog. If you have an aging dog, this is a 'must read' book. It provides simple question-and-answer treatment of essentials of aging dogs." --Dr. Johnny D. Hoskins, Internist for older dogs and cats

Award Winning Book Keeps Your Aging Dog Loving Longer, Living Better!

You can teach an old dog new tricks—and give him the best care possible. As dogs age, elderly dogs deserve and require special dog health care to prevent dog problems. COMPLETE CARE FOR YOUR AGING DOG explains how old do dogs live, how old is a “senior dog,” and old dogs health and behavior changes. You’ll find all the must know information about old dogs, dogs illness and dog symptoms, with veterinary advice for keeping your old dog healthy and treating your sick dog if necessary.

Complete Care for Your Aging Dog contains the answers you need to care for your old dog. Pet expert Amy Shojai explains:

•How to entice your older dog into getting more exercise
•What changes to expect as your dog ages—and which changes are natural and which are warning signs that should send you to the veterinarian
•Which pet-specific over-the-counter dog medications every owner should keep on hand
•How to use the L.O.V.E. Program to keep your dog loving longer and living better
•Tips on everything from choosing the right products and dog foods for your aging dog
•How to offer old dogs nursing care at home for common old dog conditions
•Information about dog symptoms and canine treatments for dog cancer, kidney failure in dogs, dog hypothyroidism, dog diabetes, blind dogs, deaf dogs, dog stroke, doggy diarrhea, canine constipation, urine incontinence, old dogs not eating, and more.

Filled with heartwarming stories, the latest developments in treating canine illnesses in old dogs, age-defying tips, and comprehensive reference material, this is the definitive guide to turning back the clock on aging--and keeping senior dogs vital, happy, and active throughout their golden years.

Amy Shojai is a certified animal behavior consultant, and appears on Animal Planet's CATS 101 and DOGS 101. She is the author of more than two-dozen award winning pet care books including COMPLETE CARE FOR YOUR AGING CAT.