As you enjoy the passing years with your beloved furry companions, the time will come when they reach their senior years. Your dog may become more tired, slower, and could develop conditions like canine arthritis or doggy dementia. With proper wellness care and special attention, there is no reason you can't keep your dog comfortable, happy, and healthy as she nears the end of her life.
Senior dogs may require more TLC, but with these tips, living with your older dog will be filled with joy and bliss instead of sadness and stress.
1. Senior Nutrition (Avoid ' All Life Stages ' Dog Food)
According to the American Kennel Club, an aging dog does not require as much food to maintain its diet. Convert your dog to a senior diet, which generally contains easily digestible nutrients and limits fats to prevent obesity and gastrointestinal issues.
2. Annual Health Checks
Routine check-ups are most important for older dogs and vet recommended bi-annually. Diseases can take a faster toll on older dogs; therefore, they can better fix these problems if identified early. As in humans, early detection is best.
3. Environmental Senior Safety
Older dogs may lose vision, hearing or become confused as they age. To help your dog adjust to these aging issues, be sure to keep your home environment consistent. Try not to switch around the furniture, move things to a new place, or change feeding or sleeping areas – this will lessen the risk of confusion that may worsen certain conditions.
4. Supportive Bedding
Choose a bed or lounger that offers both comfort and orthopedic benefits, such as a headrest. Our preference is Kuranda Orthopedic Beds. Made in the USA, highly durable (chew resistant), and offers even support to prevent joint pressure points. Side benefit- easy to clean!
5. Mental Stimulation (Enrichment)
Mental stimulation plays a crucial role in our seniors' quality of life happiness. Playing games such as 'Show & Find' stimulates a dog's natural smelling instinct. Mental stimulation can help prevent the brain's aging and promote new cells, beneficial for a dog in her golden years.
Enjoying the golden years with your dog is not only possible but can be healthy and joyful for both of you. Even if your dog develops conditions such as arthritis, cancer, or dementia, there are steps you can take to make her life happy and comfortable. Living with your senior dog can be challenging, but it's rewarding with much love and care.
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