Golden Years Come with Health Needs

Your dog will become a senior citizen around age seven. And while they may be gradual, health-related changes will start to occur. Many of these changes are similar to the aging humans experience - diminished energy, incontinence, constipation, change in appetite and water intake, hearing or vision loss and arthritis. Though these problems are pretty normal, they aren't any more comfortable for your dog than they are for your grandmother. Your veterinarian, however, can help you manage these symptoms of aging, often with dietary modification, sometimes with medication, sometimes with surgery, and sometimes just solid advice.

Early detection is your best ally and can significantly improve a treatment's success, so increase your regular check ups to twice yearly. Dental care is also critical for aging dogs, as diseases related to the teeth and gums are very common in older canines (don't wait until your dog turns seven, however, to start brushing its teeth - good dental care from puppyhood will help keep its mouth and gums healthy later in life). In short, awareness of your older dog's needs, increased regular check-ups, and taking action when necessary, will go a long way toward helping your best friend live out his later years in the happiness and comfort he's earned and deserves.

Article by Dr. Jeff Werber, DVM