Important Things to Know About Caring for a Senior Dog
Guest Article By : Jessica Brody (of ourbestfriends.pet)
jessicabrody@ourbestfriends.pet
As much as we wish our furry friends would remain young and spritely forever, animals are not exempt from the woes of aging. But this doesn’t mean their senior years need to be painful or dull. Like humans, dogs require special care to help them navigate aging and enjoy a high quality of life in their senior years. Whether your furry friend is reaching old age or you’re thinking about bringing home a senior dog of your own, check out the following care tips!
Adopting a Senior Dog
There are countless good reasons to adopt a senior dog instead of a puppy. While puppies are cute, they are also expensive and time-consuming little rascals. Senior dogs, on the other hand, are more likely to be obedient, calm, well-mannered, and easy-going. Bringing home a senior dog means you get to avoid all of the frustration and headaches involved in training and socializing a young pup, and skip right to the part where you find a loyal companion who feels right at home by your side. Adopting a senior dog from Second Chance Ranch Rescue is a great way to give an older, forgotten dog another chance at a loving family.
Affording Veterinary Care
Many people are concerned about the additional care costs that come with a senior dog, but staying on top of preventive care will minimize the risk of your dog developing a disease that requires expensive treatment. Besides keeping your dog healthy, you can reduce your vet bills by shopping around and asking for quotes on fees for office visits and common procedures like vaccinations and dental cleanings.
You may also want to get pet insurance so you can always make the best decisions for your beloved friend without worrying about the cost of care. Read pet insurance reviews to compare plans and find the best coverage for your dog’s needs.
Preventive Care
Exercising, eating clean, and stimulating the mind helps humans stay active and energetic into old age. These same healthy habits can help your dog enjoy good physical and mental well-being in their senior years too!
Most experts recommend taking your dog to the vet twice annually when they reach old age. Health problems can develop quickly and the earlier you catch them, the better. Preventive care will help slow the progression of common health problems like arthritis, kidney disease, cognitive dysfunction, and obesity.
Treating Health Issues
If your dog does develop health issues, don’t panic! Senior dogs can still live long, happy lives in the face of age-related disease. There’s a lot that you can do to alleviate pain and help your furry friend feel comfortable as they navigate your home. If your dog struggles with vision loss, for example, you can help them stay active and mentally stimulated by training them to fetch toys that smell and make noise.
Keep in mind that certain medications can also be helpful for dogs with health issues, so it’s always best to follow the recommendations of your vet. You can encourage a reluctant dog to take medicine by hiding their pills in tasty treats like soft cheese, hot dog pieces, or peanut butter!
Exercising Arthritic Pets
According to the American Kennel Club, arthritis is a common problem among senior dogs, particularly in larger breeds. Arthritis can cause pain and decreased range of motion which can make it difficult for them to get the exercise they need to stay healthy and mentally sharp.
Joint supplements can help relieve inflammation and put some spring back in your dog’s step. The right type of exercise can also help support your dog’s joints. For arthritic senior dogs, it’s best to exercise for short periods more frequently.
Senior dogs make some of the most gentle and loyal companions. With the right care and lots of love, your senior dog is going to live a long and happy life with you! Looking to give a senior dog a home? Second Chance Ranch Rescue can match you with an older rescue that will fit your family perfectly. Review the application process and fill out a form to get started!