Caring for a dog in their golden years includes becoming familiar with the best food for elderly dogs available. What kind of food should be provided to them though, and how does it qualify as “the best”? Here’s what you need to know.
Read moreBest Food for Elderly Dogs: What to Give an Aging Pet
The very idea of your beloved cat or dog growing old is something all pet owners try not to think about. We all want to see our pets live as long, happy, and healthy as possible, but unfortunately sometimes illnesses take over. It is not uncommon for major health changes to occur in pets in a short amount of time, which is why it is absolutely imperative you are prepared for the worst and know how to properly care for your senior pet.
A senior pet is rarely the first choice among those looking to adopt from a shelter. Most tend to go for younger ones—such as cute kittens and playful puppies—and shy away from grown-up or mature ones.
Constant exposure to a wide range of environmental factors usually leaves dogs vulnerable to many types of skin diseases. These problems affect dogs of all breeds and ages, but senior dogs are more prone to old dog skin problems because of their advanced age as well as their weakened immune response.
Making sure your dog stays active is an important responsibility that must be included as part of senior dog care. Many dog owners feel their older pets are too fragile to engage in physical activities; however, though they can’t run as fast or jump as high as they once did, senior dogs still need to walk, play or simply do something that gets them moving.
In some cases, of course, conditions such as osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia will limit a dog’s mobility, but that doesn’t mean you have to discard the idea of a workout or a training session altogether. You simply need to create a pain-free routine that suits your pooch best.
Read moreSenior Dog Care Includes Keeping an Older Dog Active
Pet owners can benefit by senior dog care tips that will help them recognize illnesses in their pets so that problems can be treated right away. Like humans, dogs experience a gradual decline in health with age, and are more prone to sickness and general health problems as they become older. It’s important to recognize signs and symptoms before it’s too late for successful treatment, and to ensure that your beloved pet’s last years are happy and pain free.
Read moreThese Senior Dog Care Tips Will Help Identify Illnesses
“Old dog” vestibular syndrome is a fairly common ailment that affects the balance system in older dogs. The vestibular system (the system of balance) is responsible for helping the body to maintain balance in movement and the senses. When a dog suffers a stroke or this system is in some other way compromised, it creates a sudden onset of loss of balance, disorientation, head tilting and irregular jerking eye movements.
Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for vestibular syndrome will allow you to ensure your beloved dog gets the care he or she needs and is able to live as comfortable as possible. This disease can be traumatic for both you and your pet, which is why it is helpful to educate yourself on what to look for and what can be done about it.
Read more“Old Dog” Vestibular Syndrome Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
It is no secret that puppies and kittens are adorable and pull at your heart strings. However, before you adopt a pet, it may be a good idea to consider going with a senior dog or senior cat.
There are an unfortunate amount of senior pets that find themselves in shelters for many different reasons. Regardless of how they ended up there, these animals make great companions and, in many cases, give you the opportunity to save a life. There are many wonderful reasons why you should consider adopting a senior pet, some of which we will go over below.
While many people who are considering adopting an animal immediately set out looking for a puppy or kitten, this is not always the best option. Let’s go over seven of the main reasons why you bringing home a senior pet over one that is just a few months old may be the right choice for you.
Read more7 Reasons Adopting a Senior Cat or Dog may be a Better Choice for You