Did you know that a dog becomes a senior pet at seven and a cat at 11-14? Aging can happen quickly in the life of a pet. Your young, active pet will turn into a senior. The ages at which pets are identified as seniors vary depending on the pet and its size. Dogs reach senior status much sooner than cats, with smaller-sized dogs aging more slowly than larger dogs.
How to take care of an elderly dog
Geriatric dogs require different care than grown-up dogs and young puppies. And, to give the best senior dog care possible, you will require to do things a little differently to keep them healthy. Elderly pets, however, have different needs than their younger counterparts. Elderly pets are less mobile and less energetic than they once were. Below are six tips for caring for a senior pet:
Diet Monitoring
A healthy diet is vital for maintaining your dog healthy as they age. Since they no longer have the same energy levels, older dogs are most likely to develop obesity. Finding the best dog food specifically developed for senior dogs is important to avoid weight gain. These are usually low in fat and calories and will supplement your dog’s dietary requirements.
Furthermore, because older dogs suffer from various health problems, you need to seek advice from a vet if your dog requires a special type of senior dog food.
Exercise Regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight for your dog through routine exercise will benefit its general well-being. You can speak with your veterinarian concerning a suggested exercise program based on your dog’s health and restrictions. Be patient, start slowly, and gradually enhance your dog’s stamina through regular walks and light jogs if they can run. Dogs lose energy as they age, so even if your pup could run for half an hour in the past, they may not be able to do so now.
Regular Vet Visits
Regular veterinarian care is one of the most critical aspects of caring for senior pets. As your dog ages, its immune system deteriorates, making it more vulnerable to different ailments. Many veterinarians suggest taking an older dog in for a six-month checkup. By doing this, your vet, like in Clackamas Pet Clinic, can diagnose any issues and give your dog the best care possible.
Oral Health Maintenance
Because many elderly dogs do not receive adequate oral care during their adult lives, it is not surprising to see older dogs with a couple of missing teeth. Dental care is important in grooming and must begin at a young age. You must wash your dog’s teeth daily to maintain them healthily, and if your dog isn’t a fan, begin giving them dental treats. Professional cleaning of your dog’s teeth must also be performed at the vet once a year.
Vaccination and Parasite Protection
Your dog’s age is irrelevant concerning flea, tick, lice, and worm protection. Therefore, you should continue to administer proper treatments as before. However, older dogs do not need vaccines at the same intervals. Generally speaking, every three years is sufficient. Still, you should consult your veterinarian for a pet vaccination, as they will determine the best for your dog’s unique needs.
Regular Grooming
Your dog’s fur and skin change as it gets old. A once soft and shiny coat can become dull and brittle. Seniors may also experience dry, flaky, and irritated skin, which can worsen if not properly cared for. That means you’ll have to brush your dog frequently and give them haircuts on time to avoid mats and tangles. Mild shampoos that nurture and recover irritated skin and coats are also recommended. You can search for more details about a puppy and kitten vet.
Conclusion
Not all dogs age similarly, but they all get old eventually. Aging is a natural process that every owner should know. Older dogs may have specific demands that need to be met, and you will need to find out how to make an old dog comfortable. Your dog’s health and happiness will be maintained with proper elderly dog care and attention for many years.
