How To Care For Your Senior Dog
Many households today have dogs as pets. Statistics show that dogs are present in about forty percent of homes in the United States. They are a fun edition to many families. Dogs can live for many years. Many breeds can live to be about eighteen years old. Typically a dog over seven years of age is considered a senior.
A senior dog has different requirements than a puppy for instance. When feeding a senior dog, it is best to listen to the recommendation from your veterinarian. Some senior dog food adds nutrients that can assist a dog with different ailments like arthritis or joint issues.
Some pet owners like to feed their dog homemade food. Consulting with a vet is the best way to make sure the homemade diet is giving the dog all the vitamins and minerals that it needs. Soaking a dog’s food may be in order. A dog may have lost teeth over the years. It may be easier for it to eat softer foods. Soaking the dog’s food in a warm broth will make it softer and easier to chew. The dog will love the flavor and gobble it up.
Many senior dogs nap more than their younger counterparts. Napping is fine and a good way to make your senior dog comfortable is to have him rest on a foam dog bed. They come in all sizes, colors and different materials. The beds can even hold larger breeds like the Great Pyrenees. The extra large dog bed is great for those types of breeds.
Older dogs do not like cold weather. They like to stay warm and dry. Putting a portable space heater near their bed is a way to help warm their bones. They will enjoy it. Make sure it is put securely away from the dog so that he cannot knock it over. Purchase a type that is cool to touch so it will not burn the dog.
Keeping the dog active is a way to keep his weight under control as well as keep him healthy. An older dog will enjoy a walk around the block. Just remember as a senior he may not be able to run that mile as he used to. Watch the dog and slow the pace for him. Be reasonable with asking the dog to go on a long walk. It is best to keep them shorter and sweeter.
Dogs are a special part of any family. These family friends give companionship and love too many. Caring for a senior pet is a way to help that pet enjoy his golden years. Taking good care of the senior dog will also keep the costs of vet care down.
Tags: breeds, dogs, feeding requirements. old dogs, homemade diet
