As people age, theyexperience changes in the way they feel, and how they interact with the world around them. The same goes for dogs as they get older. Fortunately, there are resources available to ease a dog's transition from active adult to canine senior citizen. These can also extend and enrich their lives. Keep an eye out for the following five changes in senior dogs, and plan for them as necessary:
1. Behavioral Changes
Dogs speak a different language when they experience physical and psychological discomfort. As they enter their senior years, cognitive issues, a decrease in sensory function, and the aches and pains of getting on in years can impact the way dogs express themselves. It's important to understand that behavior changes are usually the result of underlying problems, many of which can be treated. In any case, friends, family members, and home caregivers should be made aware that the furry family member might become less patient and more irritable as they age.
2. New Routines for Walks and Exercise
Senior dogs may require more frequent walks and trips outside to "do their business". And because they might experience joint pain, decreased stamina, and other issues, those walks will likely be shorter and slower-paced. Dog park visits will require closer monitoring to prevent injury, and as pets may become more irritable as they age, to prevent altercations with more active dogs who want to interact with them.
The good news is that frequent, low-intensity activity helps senior owners of aging dogs too.
3. Need for Assistance with Stairs and Obstacles
Changes in cognitive function, vision, and mobility mean that dogs might need rearrangement of their environment. Provide clear paths to their food and water dishes, and from their bedding (which may require an upgrade to orthopedic products) to exterior doorways.
Senior dogs will need help getting upstairs and into cars. They may be more likely to slip and injure themselves on slick flooring. For elderly dog owners, this might mean asking for assistance when transporting senior dogs, and investing in carpet runners and ramps.
4. Dietary Changes
Dogs' nutritional needs change as they age. According to the American Kennel Club, senior dogsneed 50% more protein than younger canines to prevent muscle loss. They also need a reduced-calorie diet to fend off obesity. Senior dogs can benefit from Omega-3 fatty acids to protect cognitive health and prevent osteoarthritis, the latter of which may also be prevented with glucosamine and chondroitin supplements.
The AKC does warn that individual senior dogs have different dietary needs. This depends on their unique health issues and that there is no "one size fits all" senior dog food product.
5. More Frequent Trips to the Veterinarian
The best way to ensure senior dogs live long, healthy, and comfortable lives is to take them in for regular checkups. Veterinarians can detecthealth issues that dogs might hide, and they'll recommend appropriate exercise and dietary programs.
As dogs age, their dental health declines. Regular cleanings or required tooth extractions ensure that dogs are eating regularly and that periodontal disease doesn't damage overall health.
Dogs in their prime rarely need more than an annual checkup for wellness and immunizations. However, senior dogs should visit their veterinarian at least twice each year. This is an extra expense for which dog owners should financially prepare, but in the long run, the investment will likely prevent expensive emergency vet bills and treatment for preventable issues.
Could Your Loved Ones Benefit from a Little Help?
Dogs, like their owners, need extra care, and sometimes people appreciate assistance with not just their own needs, but those of their furry companions. If you or a loved one living in Portland, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, or Hillsboro want to know more about how Senior Helpers can enhance independent living, contact us today!