 |
| Here's old dog Indy after her work out in the rain. |
While I am here dealing with taking care of two geriatric
dogs, I thought I might do some reading up on the subject (not that I’ll ever
get OLD!). I found this via BlogPaws from the American Veterinary Medical
Association:
Pets are living longer and healthier lives thanks to
developments in veterinary care and dietary habits. However, that doesn’t
change the fact that their health begins to decline in their senior years at
around the ages of six or seven.
Follow these simple tips to ensure a pet’s senior years are
also its golden years:
Increase veterinary
visits
Senior pets should be taken to the veterinarian twice a
year, instead of only once a year. Semi-annual visits allow veterinarians to
detect and treat any signs of illness early. The American Veterinary Medical
Association (AVMA.org) has a few tips to make veterinary visits a little better
for everyone click
HERE for more.
Look out for changes
in behavior
Before any medical symptoms appear, behavioral changes can
provide signs that something is wrong. Examples of behavior changes include
confusion, decreased interaction with humans, house soiling, changes in sleep
cycles, and more.
Watch for weight
changes
Dogs and cats face opposite weight-related problems in old
age. Overweight older dogs are at increased risk of health problems. Weight
loss is the chief cause for concern for felines.
Consider modifying
diet and nutrition
As pets age, their dietary needs change. Senior pets may
need easily digestible foods or foods with different calorie levels and
ingredients that include anti-aging nutrients.
Keep pets physically
active
Just as with older humans, it is very important to keep
senior pets moving. Maintaining mobility through appropriate exercise will help
keep them healthier.
Play stimulating
games
Even pets can show signs of senility. Games (such as playing
with food puzzle toys) that require time, patience, and problem-solving
abilities will help keep pets mentally active.
 |
| Here I am playing ball with Indy |
Be aware of pet
health risks and symptoms
Some pet breeds and lifestyles have increased risks
associated with them. For instance, dogs and cats that have not been neutered
or spayed have a higher risk of developing mammary, testicular, and prostate
cancers. As pets get older they develop
many of the same illnesses that are present in humans such as cancer, heart
disease, kidney and urinary tract diseases, diabetes, and even senility. These
seven tips will help maximize a pet’s senior years, but always check with
veterinarians for specific guidelines on pet care.
I learned something, didn’t you? I realized all the
exercising I do with these elderly dogs is a good thing. And, the games we play
are stimulating for them. I’ll have to talk to them about all the lying around
they do between playtimes though! Meanwhile, I’d better get busy with my online
Luminosity training so I don’t lose any of MY brain power!
Love, Cinnamon
