In favor of the next generation of hippie dogs, most people tend to overlook senior dogs. But this is a shame as older dogs are emerging and seemingly with good qualities to spread around. However, only a pack leader to a pup would understand this. Even though a senior dog may lack the usual energy and zeal when they were pups, they have tons of spunk and personality to give.
With a senior dog, you will experience lesser behavioral issues as they require less exercise and are potty-trained. If you ever think about adopting a dog, senior dogs are the best choice because of these reasons. Meanwhile, these qualities make them deserve even more attention and special care requirements from their owners. For those of you considering the adoption process, some few tips to keep you warmed up include:
- For behavioral problems, rule out medical causes
Since there isn’t much to expand, older dogs are less likely to be victims of dog problems because of their pent-up energy. However, there are also susceptible to myriads of behavioral issues no matter how few. The vet is the first and most trusted place to start with a behavioral issue with a sudden onset. After all, the behavior may be a classic sign of a medical issue. Most importantly, it is always great to tackle the issue immediately.
- Visit the vet twice a year
Because older dogs are more likely to suffer from medical problems, it is always advisable to visit the vet twice in a year – biannually. The rate of susceptibility of a dog compared to human beings is as low as six months. For younger dogs, vet appointments may be routine. But older dogs require dental care, blood work, and several examinations to determine the one of any other form of issue.
- Parasite control is an absolute must
The immune systems of dog become weak as they grow older. Therefore, there is a high risk for fleas, ticks, worms, and more pests. To curb the occurrence of thee diseases, it is important to discuss a few preventive measures with the vet.
- Watch him eat
Dental issues can render a senior dog unable to chew a kibble. For this reason, there may be a need to shift to other foods. Problems with digestion set in when the canine ages as well. Older dogs are special and deserve similar treatments. Generally, older dogs require special meal rotas that contain certain ingredients that will alleviate aging symptoms as much as possible. The easier they can digest their food, the better they can feed and grow.
- Monitor his physical activity
Several years have gone by, you don’t expect your senior dog to be able to handle the same hours of long walks from way back. With regular exercise, you will prevent him from becoming overweight and mobile for longer hours. However, you don’t want to push him too far as well. Hence, be on the lookout for signs that shows tiredness and weariness.
- Make your home senior-proof
There may be a need to make regular adjustments to his routine as he ages. For instance, keep the food and water in sleeping areas on the ground floor because climbing a flight of stairs may be difficult in his present age. High susceptibility to temperature changes demands that you reduce your senior dog’s outdoors time. For dogs that suffer from any disability such as hearing loss or blindness, special accommodations are important.
Older dogs have fewer days to provide companionship. Thus, do not think about the dog passing as you will have more time to provide care. Always take a great walk together and enjoy little moments together!