Title: Old Dog Care And Comfort
Author: Janie Knetzer
If you're a dog owner, no doubt your dog is part of the family.
As your dog gets older, he or she may have needs that were not
present when younger. Old dog care is an important part of your
dog's life as he or she approaches the senior years.
Different breeds of dogs age at different rates, and
oftentimes, those who are "mutts" are in general hardier than
purebred breeds. However, no matter the breed, at some point, a
dog is going to exhibit signs of aging, and you have to be ready
for this so that your beloved pet can receive the care required
for an older dog.
Just like human medicine, veterinary medicine has made great
strides in geriatric care, so that our pets can live longer than
they ever have before. With a little bit of effort, you can
provide your old dog care suitable for your faithful companion,
so that he or she has a comfortable and pleasant old age.
The Aging Process
Some signs you may notice that show Fido is showing his age may
include: sleeping more; eating less; being startled by noises,
bright lights, or lots of activity; not coming immediately when
you call (may indicate hearing loss or physical difficulties
such as arthritis); a duller coat; skin with less elasticity;
eyes that are not as bright or may be clouded (including the
possibility of cataracts); or loss of bladder or bowel control
in a dog that was previously well housetrained.
Keeping Your Senior Dog Comfy
You can provide proper old dog care so that your senior dog
remains comfortable in his or her old age.
First, most dogs know, for example, that they should not be
having accidents in the house. Therefore, make sure that you are
soothing and comforting if your geriatric dog should happen to
have an accident in the house. This is not a time to punish,
because the dog is already going to feel that he or she did
something very wrong. Instead, provide a comfortable spot for
your old dog to lie on that's easily washable, such as a bed or
comfortable rug. That way, if an accident happens, it's easily
cleaned up. If your dog must stay out of places, such as a
favorite room, where accidents simply can't happen, use a baby
gate to keep him out of that particular spot.
Second, old dog care should include regular veterinary visits
to make sure your dog is up on his or her shots, and that
everything is being done to make sure he or she remains healthy.
One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to
make sure that his or her teeth are clean and healthy. Get your
dog's teeth cleaned on a regular basis if necessary. Not only
does an unhealthy mouth cause things like gingivitis, soreness,
or tooth loss, but it can actually also cause other systemic
problems like heart problems and arthritis.
Third, make sure you provide the proper diet for your dog. Your
veterinarian can give you proper foods that are more appropriate
for older digestive systems, as well as for dogs with such
problems as kidney failure, heart failure, or for those who have
trouble chewing.
Fourth, make sure your dog stays safe. As hearing and eyesight
fail, and as coordination becomes less trustworthy, your pet may
have trouble with things like stairs, and can actually fall and
injure himself. Strategically placed baby gates by stairs can
help ensure that your dog doesn't take a tumble.
Fifth and finally, make sure you provide lots and lots of love
to your aging pet as part of your old dog care. Remember that
your pet is the same loving dog he or she always has been, with
just a little more gray hair and a little less agility. Shower
him or her with lots of attention just as you always have, so
that he or she still feels like part of the family.
About The Author: Janie has been working with dogs for over
twenty five years. She resides in Southwestern Pennsylvania with
her husband and two dogs. She dedicates herself to educating
others about the importance of proper dog care.
http://www.old-
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