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Taking good care of your dog through all stages of his life will help your pet live longer. When your dog reaches his golden years, more attention will need to be given to his medical care, diet, and exercise. Doing so will help prevent problems before they begin.
According to the website "The Senior Dog Project", at http://www.srdogs.com, exercise and good nutrition are important for the health of the older dog. It says that exercise is beneficial to the major internal organs, and it will help control your dog's weight. It also states that a dog over the age of seven that has not been examined by a veterinarian should be examined before regular exercise begins. This examination should be given twice a year and may include a health screening especially for older dogs.
The article also gives advice on dental care for your older dog. It is advised that you take proper care of your dog's teeth throughout his life. Besides preventing tooth decay and gum disease, cleaning your dog's teeth on a regular basis will keep his internal organs free from infections which can spread from the mouth. Having your dog's teeth professionally cleaned by a veterinarian will keep them healthy. Special toothbrushes for dogs are available, as well as toothpaste formulated especially for dogs. If you brush your dog's teeth from the time he is a puppy to adulthood, he will welcome this attention and will consider the toothpaste a treat. Watch for any changes in your dogs' eating or chewing habits. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any significant changes.
The same article lists some signs that your older dog may need to be seen by a veterinarian. They are as follows.
*Great thirst with
frequent urination
*Weight loss for no
apparent reason
*Diarrhea
*Vomiting
*Lack of desire to eat
*Sudden and extreme
fatigue
*Abnormal behavior
*Coughing
*Loss of movement or
sudden failure of
strength
Give your older dog the proper medical care he needs, and you will have many healthy years together. He is counting on you to give him the love and care he needs in his golden years.
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