Helping Your Senior Dogs Live Their Best
- Last updated on January 21, 2023
- By: Caroline Stowe
As our canine companions grow older, they can become prone to a variety of ailments and medical issues. To ensure their well-being, our senior pups require special attention and care.
As responsible pet owners, it is important for us to be aware of the more frequent health issues that affect canines so we can spot them early on and take proper measures in order to address them promptly.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common health problems found in senior dogs and how you can help your furry friend maintain its quality of life as it ages gracefully.
Common Health Issues in Senior Dogs
Arthritis and Joint Pain
Aging can take a toll on the joints and bones of our beloved pets, leading to canine arthritis and joint pain. These are common physical ailments that affect senior dogs. This type of disorder relates to inflammation of the joints, which causes pain and stiffness.
Depending on the severity of the condition, mobility may be limited, making it difficult for an aging pup to move around with ease. These conditions are often accompanied by limping or difficulty in movement, which should be taken as warning signs.
Other common signs of arthritis include reluctance to move around or climb stairs, difficulty standing up after lying down for too long, and sleeping more than usual.
If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s best to visit the vet right away so they can diagnose any underlying problems.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can help ease your pup’s pain and discomfort. For example, providing your pet with an orthopedic dog bed made with memory foam and making sure the area is free from hard surfaces can help reduce pressure on their joints.
You might also consider adding supplements to their diet that contain glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids – both of which are proven to have anti-inflammatory properties.
To further support your pet’s joint health, consider transitioning to dog food for arthritis specifically tailored for pups experiencing discomfort in their joints. Check out our top picks on the best senior dog food here.
Additionally, physical therapy and regular, supervised exercise can help your dog stay active and nimble. Other alternative solutions for joint pain could include acupuncture or pet massage as well.
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS)
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is a neurological disorder that affects the brain of senior dogs. It is characterized by a decline in mental clarity, alertness and awareness.
Common signs of CDS include disorientation, confusion, changes in sleep patterns and difficulty learning new things. In extreme cases, dogs may even become incontinent or display episodes of aggression as a result of cognitive decline.
In order to diagnose cognitive impairment in senior dogs, your veterinarian may recommend running a series of tests – such as CT scans and bloodwork – to rule out other potential factors that can contribute to mental deterioration.
The good news is that there are treatments available which can help with cognitive impairment in senior dogs. These include providing mental stimulation and environmental enrichment through activities such as interactive toys, puzzle toys or feeders, hide-and-seek games and walking in new areas.
Additionally, providing high-quality food that contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants can help improve brain function in these older pups. Finally, natural remedies such as turmeric and coconut oil may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of cognitive impairment.
By establishing a routine and providing them with mental stimulation, nutrition and natural remedies, you can help your beloved pet maintain their cognitive function and remain healthy as they age.
Weight Gain
Weight gain in senior dogs is a common occurrence and can present many health risks. As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, making them unable to burn fat as quickly as when they were younger. This combined with decreased activity levels can lead to unhealthy weight gain.
As their weight increases, it puts extra strain on the joints and muscles and can cause lameness or pain. Additionally, obesity in senior dogs increases their risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and other serious medical conditions.
If you notice signs that your pet is gaining weight, it’s important to take action right away.
You can start by increasing the amount of exercise your pet gets each day and decreasing the amount of food they consume. If necessary, make sure to adjust their diet to a low-calorie formula or other weight management dog food that is appropriate for senior dogs.
In addition to adjusting their diet and activity levels, it’s also important to provide nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain a healthy weight and avoid inflammation. It is also important to keep an eye on your pet’s weight and make sure they are not gaining or losing too much weight.
By taking the necessary steps to keep your pet’s weight in check, you can help ensure your pet stays healthy as they age.
Vision Loss
Vision Loss is another common ailment among senior dogs, often caused by the deterioration of the lens and cornea. This can cause blurry vision and even complete blindness in some cases. If you find your senior pup sensitive to light, bumping into furniture, unwilling to go outside in the dark and/or avoiding stairs, these are all signs of vision loss.
If you suspect that your pet is having trouble with their sight, it is important to take them to the vet for a thorough check-up. Once a diagnosis has been made, your veterinarian may recommend treatments such as eye drops or surgery, depending on the severity.
Additionally, there are natural remedies and supplements that can help improve vision in senior dogs – such as lutein for cataracts and astaxanthin for retinal degeneration. It is important to note that these natural remedies should be used in conjunction with the appropriate medical treatments.
Finally, providing your pet with a safe and secure environment can help them adjust to their vision loss. This can be achieved by rearranging the furniture so that it has padding, such as adding mats to the edges of tables and chairs and by keeping cluttered items off the floor. Additionally, setting up a small boundary using an indoor pet gate can help keep your dog safe in certain areas of the house.
It is important to remember that vision loss in senior dogs is a serious condition. However it can be managed with the right treatment plan and lifestyle adjustments. With your help, your pet can still remain active and enjoy its golden years.
Heart Disease
As our beloved pets age, they become susceptible to the development of heart disease–a debilitating condition that can worsen with time if left untreated. It is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries and abnormal heart rhythm, which can lead to heart failure.
The telltale signs of heart disease are coughing from fluid buildup in the lungs and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms can include listlessness, lethargy, loss of appetite, and sudden collapse. If you notice any of these signs in your pup, seek professional medical advice right away!
If a heart disease is detected in your pet, it is important to follow the advice of your veterinarian for treatment options. These may include medication to reduce inflammation or regulate heartbeat, as well as dietary modifications and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
It is important to remember that heart disease in senior dogs is a serious condition, however, it can be managed with the right treatment plan and lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise is one of the most important aspects of managing their condition. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and fetching are all great ways to keep your pet active without overexerting them.
In addition to physical activity, it is essential that your pet has a balanced diet in order to prevent and manage heart disease. Providing them with food specifically formulated for senior dogs is ideal as it will provide the necessary nutrients they need. Avoiding foods with too much sodium, as well as carbohydrates, is recommended for senior dogs with heart disease. Additionally, providing them with supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce inflammation associated with heart disease.
Regular veterinary check-ups are key to catching any early signs that your pet may have heart disease. Additionally, providing them with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help to prevent or manage heart disease in senior dogs.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is another common medical condition among the senior dogs. This disorder occurs when the kidneys are unable to properly filter toxins out of the body, leading to an accumulation of toxins in the blood. As kidney function declines, it can lead to anemia, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
Symptoms of kidney disease typically include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. In advanced stages of the disorder, dogs may suffer from seizures or even enter a coma due to uremic poisoning.
If you suspect your pup may be suffering from kidney disease, it’s important to visit the vet to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Treatment for kidney disease typically involves controlled diet management and fluid therapy. Your veterinarian may also recommend prescription medications to support kidney health and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, making dietary changes can help slow down kidney damage and reduce symptoms – so talk to your vet about switching your pup’s food to a specialized kidney diet that contains low levels of phosphorous, sodium and protein.
There are some lifestyle modifications you can make to help your pup manage kidney disease. Regular exercise and low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and fetching are all great ways to keep your pet active without overexerting them – however, be sure not to overdo it when exercising your dog as this could put too much strain on the kidneys.
Since kidney disease can be fatal if left untreated, it is important to seek professional medical advice right away if you notice any of the signs in your pup. With the right treatment plan, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups, your pet can live a long and healthy life.
Cancer
Cancer is a devastating illness that can affect senior dogs, causing pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to detect as symptoms may not appear immediately. Common signs of cancer in senior dogs include weight loss, lethargy, decreased appetite, lumps or bumps on the body, difficulty breathing, and changes in behavior.
If you suspect your pup may be suffering from cancer, go visit your vet right away. The vet can diagnose the condition with tests such as a complete blood count, biopsy, and/or radiographs. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment options may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy to kill the cancer cells, or a combination of all three.
In addition to medical treatments for cancer, lifestyle changes can play an important role in helping senior dogs with cancer manage their symptoms and reduce discomfort. there are some lifestyle modifications that can help your pet manage its symptoms and reduce discomfort.
Regular exercise is essential to help keep your pup’s body strong and active – so make sure to take your pup on regular walks, or look for low-impact activities such as swimming, fetching or even playing hide-and-seek.
Nutrition is also very important for your pet’s overall health and well-being – so be sure to feed them a nutrient-rich diet that contains high-quality proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Your vet can recommend the best food for your pup’s particular needs, but in general, it should be free from artificial ingredients like preservatives and fillers.
Cancer can be a stressful and emotionally trying time for both you and your pet – so make sure to give them plenty of love and affection throughout their treatment. With the proper care, lifestyle changes and regular check-ups, your pup can have a long and happy life.
Conclusion
Caring for a senior dog can be challenging but with the right knowledge and care, you can help your pup manage common health problems that may arise. Kidney disease and cancer are two of the most serious illnesses faced by older dogs – so if you notice any symptoms in your pet, it’s important to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.
With proper treatment plans, lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and nutrition changes, along with plenty of love and affection from their owners – senior dogs can live long and healthy lives!
-
Author:
Caroline Stowe
- Updated on January 21, 2023
Disclaimer: This article doesn’t intend to replace professional veterinary advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this website, including information and opinions expressed herein, are intended for general informational purposes only. In case you have concerns or questions regarding your dog’s health and diet requirements, please consult your veterinarian before doing anything that might affect it.
DogPetGuide.com and the writer are not responsible or liable for any damage, liability, costs, or claims arising from any possible consequences of the reader’s action after reading this article.
