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Signs of ageing
Ageing changes occur gradually and may not be obvious to
you as you see your dog every day. You might see changes in
coat collar, greying of the muzzle, sleep pattern, appetite
and thirst, body shape, reluctance to exercise and behaviour.
Many of these changes also develop as symptoms of diseases
so have your dog checked by your vet regularly.
Many veterinary practices run senior or geriatric clinics
dedicated to offering advice on diet and care for the older
dog. Routine healthcare such as annual vaccination boosters,
worming and flea control should not be overlooked and should
be continued throughout your dog's life into old age.
Diet
There are some notable differences in the nutritional requirements
of the older dog. Senior life stage diets take into account
altered life styles, levels of activity and declining organ
function. Your vet will be able to give you advice when changing
from an adult to a senior diet.
Some older dogs require up to 20% fewer calories as they
become less active, so weigh your dog regularly (every 3 months).
Many veterinary surgeries have scales as well as breed weight
guidelines. Adjust the food intake to maintain optimum weight.
Obesity is likely to put more strain on the heart, lungs,
muscles and joints and may result in a shorter life expectancy.
If your dog is overweight, speak to a vet about a calorie
control diet.
As activity levels fall, old dogs may start to demonstrate
muscle wastage. Normal healthy senior dogs should receive
the same levels of protein as younger dogs but it must be
of high quality. Feeding them little and often avoids overloading
their digestive system. Their appetite may reduce as the sense
of smell and taste diminishes. Old dogs require extra attention
from you. Be kind and considerate and recognise this need
for greater input into your dog's life.
Older dogs also tend to need to go to the toilet more often
as a result of muscular weakness. Give them more opportunities
to go out during the day, later at night and earlier in the
morning.
Some signs of old age can be treated rather than endured.
Check with your vet.
· Stiffness This may be caused by arthritis, spinal disease
or musculo-skeletal disease. Although arthritis cannot be
cured, inflammation and pain can be eased by medication or
diet.
· Reluctance to exercise
· Breathlessness and slowing down
· Drinking more Fresh clean water should be available at
tall times. Increased thirst can be a symptoms of disease
but it is more common for older dogs to drink more. It may
indicate kidney disease, liver or endocrine disease. Measure
water intake by filling the bowl with a measuring jug or pint
bottle and measure how much water has been drunk in 24 hours.
· Weight loss or gain may indicate illness. Weigh your dog
regularly and report any changes to your vet.
· Impaired hearing and sight
· Inappropriate barking and howling. This can occur as a
result of routine household events such as a washing machine
causing vibration or jolts. Never punish - always investigate.
Ensure that the route to food and water is easy and obstacle
free.
Parting
Coming to terms with the end of your dog's life is very difficult.
It is very important to know when to let go of your faithful
friend. Give the same care, consideration and thought to this
as you have done throughout your dog's life.
Remember that the ageing processes lead to an increased probability
of death but not always to a quick and pain free death. Death
by natural causes may be drawn out and involve much pain and
suffering. Quality of life is an all-important consideration.
After years together, no one wants to say goodbye but you
must remember that to keep an ill dog alive just because you
don't want to say goodbye is unfair.
Euthanasia is an important aspect of the services offered
by your veterinary surgeon. You should not feel guilty about
giving this some thought before the event or when you make
the decision. A kind and considerate end is the ultimate act.
Talk to your veterinary surgeon and the staff at your practice
before and after the event. You may wish to arrange for your
vet to come to your house so that your dog can slip away from
you while being with you in their own home, rather than the
distress of an unfamiliar or distressing clinic room at your
vets. Many practices have staff specially trained who offer
bereavement counselling.
While your pet may be physically gone, they will live as
long as their wonderful memories.
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