Aging Together: 4 Things That Change as Senior Dog Get Older
Your dog has been your best buddy for years. From hiking through the spectacular Minto-Brown Island State Park near Salem to enjoying the Peavy Arboretum's off-leash trails in Corvallis, your dog has been your loyal hiking companion. Or maybe you two preferred browsing the Copper Creek Mercantile in Keizer or dining at the Vault 244 Bistro in Albany instead. Whatever your lifestyle preferences, you and your dog have enjoyed them together. But now your dog is slowing down as age catches up to him. He may no longer feel up to going hiking and even getting in the car for a ride. What can you do to help your senior dog enjoy the rest of his life in a safe and comfortable way?
Some of the Challenges Your Senior Dog May Face
Not every dog faces all of these challenges, but most dogs have at least a few. If you're prepared for them, at least you'll have a plan in place in case they do begin to affect your beloved pet's life.
Decreased Mobility
Have you noticed that your dog is hesitant to perform normal activities like standing up or climbing stairs? Is he moving more slowly on his daily walks or showing reluctance to chase a ball? Is he limping or showing other signs of pain or stiffness? These are all common signs of aging in pets. As their joints stiffen and their muscles weaken, they become more reluctant to change positions or move around.
Steps You Can Take to Improve Your Senior Dog's Mobility
- Switch to an elevated dog bed to make it easier for him to stand up and lie down.
- Keep his nails trimmed to make walking more comfortable. Adding toe grips will improve his traction on slippery surfaces.
- A raised food and water stand will make it easier for your pet to eat and drink. A non-slip mat will give him more secure footing so he can concentrate on chowing down.
- Focus on slow, easy, regular exercise. A stroll every day will help keep your dog and you in good shape.
Increased Likelihood of Injury
As your dog stiffens and becomes less mobile, his risk of injury increases. It becomes unsafe for him to jump on and off the couch or bed. A set of dog steps or a dog ramp will let him continue to enjoy his cuddles with you. A dog ramp will also make it safer and easier for him to go outside to do his business if you have steps leading to the yard. This is good because he'll also be experiencing...
More Frequent Urination
Just like with humans, dog bladders need to be emptied more often as they age. That means more trips outside, including throughout the night. A doggy door will really help if you have one or can have one installed.
Changes in Routine Behavior
Sadly, some senior dogs can develop a condition that's very similar to Alzheimer's in humans. This condition is called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS), and it usually occurs in dogs that are at least nine years old.
Symptoms of CCDS:
- Acting confused or anxious
- Wandering aimlessly (especially at night)
- Having trouble finding their food and water dishes
- Forgetting their housetraining
- Not recognizing people that they know
- Forgetting their favorite tricks or obedience commands
- Standing in corners or getting stuck between the toilet and tub or a piece of furniture and the wall
A dog with CCDS might have just a few of these symptoms or several of them. If you suspect that your pet is experiencing cognitive decline, it's important to get him to your vet right away. With early diagnosis and treatment, you and your dog can still enjoy plenty of quality time together.
Despite the challenges that your senior dog may face, there's no reason that you and your best friend can't continue enjoying life together. Especially when Senior Helpers in Salem, Oregon, can help. Contact us, Senior Helper Salem, OR, for more information.