Caring for older dogs

By: Toronto4Dogs

Older dogs can lead happy, active lives! Here are a few tips to make your aging dog more comfortable. You should take him to the vet more frequently - 6 month checkups are suggested. When at the vet, you should inquire about:

1. Your dog's teeth and gums - Clean your dog's teeth. You should also inspect for inflammation and irritation, as well as for bad breath, damaged teeth, and gum disease which can develop in older pets. This can make eating painful and uncomfortable.

2. Joint pain and stiffness - Your vet may suggest a supplement to relieve these symptoms as well as arthritis.

3. Eyesight trouble - Older dogs can often develop cataracts, which may be treated by your vet.

Also consult your vet immediately if:

• Your dog has lost its appetite
• Your dog is drinking more than usual
• Your dog has lost weight
• Your dog is stiff, has a limp or has difficulty jumping up onto things
• You find lumps or bumps, especially if they are rapidly getting bigger
• Your dog gets tired when going out for a walk
• Your dog has a cough
• Your dog is having trouble passing urine or faeces
• Your dog has become disorientated or is having trouble with balance

Some basic things you are able to do at home:

• Get a raised dish for your dog is he has trouble eating at floor level.
• Gently brush your dog daily as they can develop a matted coat.
• Provide food specially formulated for older pets. This helps manage their weight.
• Help your pet get regular exercise. Dogs need to stay fit to combat excess weight and keep their muscles tone and in good condition. Keep exercise routines consistent. Do not make them strenuous (shorter activity periods held more often is best.)
• Invest in a few baby gates to keep your dog from the stairs or the living room carpet if necessary. This helps avoid injury if your dog is too stiff or can't see well to climb the stairs, and avoids stains on the rug from incontinence problems.
• Make sure your dog has a rug or bed to sleep on. If he doesn't want to lie on the floor, he has a softer surface to sleep on. If your dog sleeps in a crate, put a pad or thick blanket on the bottom.

This will help ease your dog's transition into old age… For further information and advice on caring for your aging pet, consult your vet.