Caring for a senior dog
I know we don’t want to admit it, but as our dogs age they require different things from us to allow them to continue living a fulfilled life. In this blog post you’ll learn a little about the physical effects of aging on your dog from a veterinary physiotherapists view, and also some tips on how small adaptations to daily routines and environment can keep your dog happy and healthy during their mature years. Because, at the end of the day, they can’t tell you what they need, you have to learn to understand their language and prepare for the inevitability of your pup growing old.
What happens as my dog ages?
On average, dogs live for around 12 years, however, this can differ largely due to things such as breed and genetics, bigger dogs tend to age faster.
Just like us, as your dog becomes older their bodies will start to slow down, because of this, less energy is required. If you continue feeding and exercising your senior dog as if they were still in their prime, there is an increased chance of weight gain and injury.
Weight management is important for all dogs, but especially for aging dogs because as the body slows muscles and bones become weaker. Additional weight combined with this puts your dog at a higher risk of musculoskeletal dysfunction which is often a cause of discomfort and pain for your dog if not noticed and delt with appropriately. Deteriorations in the internal organ systems, such as the heart, kidneys and liver, are also more likely in overweight senior dogs.
The only thing that’s certain in life is that everyone, including our beloved dogs, will age. However, this doesn’t need to be a negative thing, advances in medicine and knowledge around the process and management of aging means its more than achievable for your dog to continue living a happy and healthy life right up until their last day. Age is not a reason to accept ill health, so looking out for the signs of deterioration and being able to identify what is normal and what is not is vital in insuring your dog ages without compromise of their happiness.
Senior dietary adaptations
Because senior dogs require less energy on a daily basis, their diet should be lower in calories to avoid the risk of weight gain. A great way to manage mature dogs’ weight is to safely and slowly switch their food to a senior version and follow the recommended daily quantity, this should always be done under advice from your veterinarian. Its important to weigh your dog’s food when there any age because its too easy to miss the weight increase when it’s so gradual, regularly weighing your dog is a fantastic way to make sure they aren’t putting on the pounds or losing them. Weight loss can be an early sign of illness so always consult your vet if you notice your dog losing weight. As a general rule, you should e able to see an hourglass waist on your dog from an above view and feel the ribs with light finger pressure, however, this can be affected by breed so follow veterinarian advice.
Senior exercise adaptations
“My dog seemed a bit stiff this morning” is probably the most common reason owners come to me with their senior dogs for maintenance. Arthritis is common joint deterioration that comes with aging and can be managed to allow your dog to continue living an active lifestyle. Weight control is the most important factor but exercise adaptations can also help alleviate symptoms. Also make sure your dog’s nails aren’t too long as this can make exercise more challenging and uncomfortable for your dog. Here’s three tips on exercising senior dogs:
1. Keep the daily exercise as constant as possible
2. Little and often is preferred, 20-30 minutes two or three times daily as a general rule
3. Do not take your dog out if they are lame or extra stiff, if this persists see your veterinarian or veterinary physiotherapist
These tips are vital but also very generic so if you would like to find out more about the most appropriate amount and type of exercise speak to a registered Veterinary Physiotherapist, such as Impact Veterinary Physiotherapy, who can create a unique exercise programme for your dog.
Additionally, Veterinary prescribed medication can be useful if your dog is in pain to improve their quality of life, this may eventually only be needed on bad days. Natural supplements can also be recommended by your vet.
Another great way to keep your dog mentally stimulated without having to go for long walks is toys and puzzle feeders.
Senior environmental adaptations
When you brought your pup home for the first time there were some adaptations you made to your house to make it suitable for this fluffy energetic biter. Now they’re getting older there’s some different adaptations that should be made to make their life a bit easier. Here’s a list of five:
1. Rugs on slippery floors, aging can cause slowing and a decrease in proprioception, slippery floors aren’t good for any dogs as they can lose control of their limbs and hurt themselves, however, this risk is even higher for senior dogs
2. Steps or lifting into and out of the car, because your dogs’ bones and joints will weaken with age jumping into or out of the car could cause serious injury
3. Access to outside more regularly, control of the neck of the bladder can deteriorate with age, especially in female dogs, meaning your dog may need the toilet more regularly and suddenly. Getting your dog used to using a dog flap when you have to leave them or placing training pads on the floor in a designated area are great ways of preparing your dog for this. Although usually normal, if you notice your dog losing control of their urinary system tell your vet as it could also be a sign of abnormal bladder disorders.
4. Keeping your dog warm and comfortable by giving them a nice cosy bed and wearing a coat if its cold or wet outside
5. Try not to reorganise furniture, move your dogs bed or bowls frequently or make loud sudden noises because hearing and eye sight often deteriorates with age (if you notice signs of this its best to let your vet know when you next see them)
These are a great starting point to make sure your home is age proof but this should be paired with the mentality that your dog will slow down and struggle with things they once did without hesitation.
Abnormal detreating signs to look out for
· Eating less or losing weight
· Drinking more than normal
· Stiffness or a limp
· New or growing lumps
· Your dog is getting tired during their usual walks
· Urinating inside
· Diarrhoea
If you notice any of these its best to see a vet asap
Finally, remember to enjoy every day you have with your best friend because you are their whole world and they need your love and care more than ever when they mature. Cuddles and gentle grooms are much better than treats and long walks when showing a senior dog how much you love them.
References
RSPCA (2021). Caring for older dogs. Available at https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs
Blue Cross (2021). Caring for older dogs. Available at https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/caring-for-older-dogs
Pets at home (2021). Senior dry dog food. Available at https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/dog/dog-food/dry-dog-food/royal-canin-mini-breed-ageing-12-plus-dog-food-15kg?&msclkid=4c1309a6039f1f25d7cb689e994b155d&gclid=4c1309a6039f1f25d7cb689e994b155d&gclsrc=3p.ds
Vet Street (2021). Your Senior Dog: What to Expect at 10-12 Years. Available at http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/your-senior-dog-what-to-expect-at-10-12-years
Dog Aging Project (2021). About the Project. Available at https://dogagingproject.org/about-project/
