Aging Together: 6 Things That Change as Senior Dogs Get Older
Companionship to our senior adults through ownership of pets is very important in their lives. As senior adults age, they spend less time around other people. Therefore, their pets age alongside them. Senior dogs can be perfect for older adults because they are already trained and have lesser energy compared to puppies.
When Is a Dog Considered a Senior?
The process of aging in a dog is slow and gradual. It also depends on the size and breed of a dog. Big dogs tend to age faster than smaller ones. The senior adults in Evansville need to observe a dog's behavior and health and report any abnormal behavior to a veterinary officer.
Below is a simple guide indicating when dogs are considered senior:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs.): Between 7-10 years old
- Medium dogs (21-50 lbs.): From 7 years old
- Large (51-90 lbs.) and giant dogs (90+ lbs.): From 5-6 years old
6 Things That Change as Senior Dogs Get Older
1. A Change in Weight
As the dog ages, it loses weight due to reduced muscle mass. Alternatively, the dog can gain more weight due to reduced physical activity. Older adults need to visit a veterinary officer to get advice about a healthy diet for their dog.
2. Slowing Down or Difficulty Getting Around
A senior dog experiences trouble with movement, such as going upstairs, jumping into a car, and even getting up from a nap. The weakness, in most cases, is noted in the back legs. The older adults in Newburgh need to adjust to slower walks and swimming, which is gentle on the dog's body and many dogs love swimming.
3. Weak Immune System
These older dogs have an immune system that weakens as they age. Senior dogs in Boonville also develop eyesight and hearing problems. This means they are prone to many injuries and ailments at this stage. The citizens should then schedule to take their dogs for regular health checkups with the vet at least once every six months.
4. Thinning and Graying Hair
A senior dog in Mount Vernon shows gray hair around their muzzle and eyes. Their coat appears dull and thinner. Senior adults should comb and groom their dogs because the dogs would love extra attention from their caregivers. In case of extreme changes with the dog's coat, the caregiver should take it to the vet for an examination.
5. Dental Disease
Senior adults could notice plaque that has built up on the teeth of their senior dogs. Plaque that builds up on the teeth forms a hard deposit on teeth which irritates the dog's gums, leading to teeth loss and other infections. Senior dogs, therefore, need regular tooth brushing and regular visits to the veterinarian for an oral exam and professional dental cleaning.
6. Sleeping Patterns
Senior dogs sleep for longer hours compared to younger ones. An older dog can sleep for18 to 20 hours a day. This is because they have lesser energy to move around. The senior adults should ensure a good environment for their senior dog to sleep in.
Many dogs suffer from conditions such as arthritis. The senior citizens in Evansville and Newburgh should come up with low-lying beds that do not require their dogs to jump. Senior dogs with difficulty in movement cannot climb stairs, and it is also important for senior adults to create a sleeping room for their dogs downstairs.
Am I Too Old to Adopt a Senior Dog?
The mature adults in Evansville, Newburgh, Mount Vernon, and Boonville are never too old to adopt a dog because of their age. In fact, they need a companion to walk around with, share a meal with, and, most importantly, a companion who is always happy to see them around.
Are you in need of in-home senior care in Evansville? At Senior Helpers of Evansville, we have customized care plans that meet your loved one's needs as they change over time, this is inclusive of pet services and house chores. For more details about our services, click here.