Did you know that a dog becomes a senior pet at seven and a cat at 11-14? Aging can happen quickly in the life of a pet. Your young, energetic pet will grow into a senior. The ages at which pets are categorized as seniors differ depending on the pet and its size. Dogs reach senior status much sooner than cats, with smaller dogs aging more slowly than larger dogs.
How to take care of an elderly dog
Geriatric dogs require different care than adult dogs and puppies. And, to provide the best senior dog care possible, you will require to do things a little differently to maintain them healthy. Elderly pets, however, have different needs than their younger counterparts. Elderly pets are less mobile and less vigorous than they once were. Below are six tips for caring for an elderly pet:
Diet Monitoring
A well-balanced diet is necessary for maintaining your dog healthy as they age. Since they no longer have the same energy levels, older dogs are more likely to develop obesity. Finding the best dog food specially designed for senior dogs is important to prevent weight gain. These are often low in fat and calories and will supplement your dog’s nutritional needs.
Moreover, older dogs experience different health issues. You must seek advice from an adult and puppy veterinary care if your dog requires a special type of senior dog food.
Exercise Regularly
Keeping a healthy weight for your dog through regular exercise will also benefit its general well-being. You can speak to your veterinary geriatric care about a recommended exercise program based on your dog’s health and restrictions. Be patient, start slowly, and gradually boost your dog’s stamina through normal walks and light jogs if they can run. Even if your puppy was once able to run for a half-hour, it might not be able to do so now because dogs lose energy as they age.
Regular Vet Visit
Routine veterinarian care is one of the most critical aspects of caring for elderly pets. As your dog ages, its immune system deteriorates, making it more vulnerable to different ailments. Many vets advise taking an older dog in for a six-month examination. By doing so, your veterinarian will be able to ascertain the nature of any issues and offer your dog the best care. For other veterinary services your pet needs, you can visit their homepage.
Oral Health Maintenance
It is very common to see older dogs with a few teeth missing because most elderly dogs do not receive adequate dental care during their adult lives. Dental care is very important in grooming and should begin at a young age. You must wash your dog’s teeth daily to maintain them healthily, and if your dog isn’t a fan, begin giving them dental treats. Professional cleaning of your dog’s teeth should also be done at the vet once a year.
Vaccination and Parasite Protection
Your dog’s age is irrelevant regarding flea, tick, lice, and worm protection. Therefore, you should continue to administer proper treatments as before. Nonetheless, older dogs do not need vaccines at the same intervals. Typically, once every three years is sufficient, but you should consult your veterinarian because they will know what is best for your dog’s specific needs.
Regular Grooming
Your dog’s fur and skin change as it ages. A once soft and shiny coat can become dull and brittle. Seniors may also experience dry, flaky, and irritated skin, which can worsen if not properly cared for. That implies you’ll have to comb your dog frequently and give them haircuts on time to prevent mats and tangles. Veterinarians recommend using mild shampoos that nurture and heal irritated skin and coats.
Conclusion
Not all dogs age the same way, but they all get old eventually. Aging is a natural process that every owner must be aware of. Older dogs may have specific needs that the owner should meet, and you will need to find out how to make an old dog comfortable. The vet will maintain your dog’s health and happiness with appropriate senior dog care and attention for many years.