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Caring for Older Dogs
Caring for Older Dogs
Older dogs have special needs that require attention in
order to provide them with health and happiness.
September 21, 2004
Everyone is getting older ... including our pets. In the
United States, it's estimated that more than 18 million dogs
and 22 million cats are considered "senior citizens."
What's considered "old" for a pet? Generally, a dog or cat
older than seven years is considered middle-aged because our
pets age seven times faster than we do. In other words, an
eight-year-old cat would be 56 years old in "people years."
That's why we might not easily notice our pet is beginning
to show the signs of growing older.
September is National Senior Pet Health Month, a time when
California veterinarians urge all pet owners to be aware of
the signs of aging. Common ailments affecting older pets include
arthritis, cancer, diabetes, kidney and liver diseases, and
thyroid problems.
Unfortunately, our pets can't tell us if their limbs are
aching, their teeth are hurting, or their appetite is waning
because they just don't feel well. That's why veterinarians
strongly recommend that "senior" pets get twice-a-year checkups
to detect any problems before they become serious. Early detection
is the easiest way to treat canine or feline ailments and
diseases.
"We all want our pets to be with us as long as possible,"
said Jon Klingborg, DVM, president of the California Veterinary
Medical Association (CVMA). "The good news is that advancements
in veterinary medicine allow us to detect medical problems
early and provide treatment so that our pets can live longer,
happier lives."
Pet owners now have access to medical procedures for their
animals that were once available only to humans: hip replacements,
pacemakers, organ transplants, and chemotherapy. And there
are more veterinarians specializing in the areas of oncology,
ophthalmology, cardiology, neurology, and other specialties.
In addition to seeing a veterinarian for a twice-annual "senior
exam," there are other ways to ease your aging pet's lifestyle:
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If your pet is arthritic, install a safety gate across
stairways to spare aching joints. Also, elevate food and
water bowls so your pet doesn't have to bend down to eat
or drink.
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Mop up any spills around feeding bowls so pets won't
slip and fall.
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Consider switching to "senior" foods to ensure your pet
receives balanced nutrition without extra calories. (If
your pet is on a specialty diet, consult your veterinarian
before making a switch.)
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When brushing and grooming your senior pet, check for
lumps, sores, parasites, and ear discharges.
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Keep up to date on your pet's vaccinations since older
pets may be more susceptible to disease.
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Provide routine dental care to avoid gingivitis and loss
of teeth.
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Pay attention to any indications of potential medical
conditions-weight loss, change in urination, increased
stiffness, trembling or shaking, sleep pattern disruption,
and changes in skin or haircoat.
You know your pet best. If you spot any signs of pain or
behavioral changes, contact your veterinarian for advice.
For more information on caring for senior pets, please contact
Melissa Stallings at the CVMA at (916) 649-0599.
The California Veterinary Medical Association is the largest
state veterinary medical association in the United States,
with more than 5,000 members. Founded in 1888, its mission
is to serve its membership and community through innovative
leadership and to improve animal and human health in an ethically
and socially responsible manner.
For more tips and information on caring for your dog, visit
the CVMA website at: http://www.cvma.net
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