11/09/2023
Just having a little chat 💬 with my sweet 8 year old pretty 😍 lady Lola 💜😍☺️
Seeing your dog 🐕 reach seniorhood is a blessing 😇, even if can be difficult 😥 to witness them start to slow down a little 💔
When your dog officially reaches senior status will depend on their size and genetics 🧬. Large breed dogs are considered seniors earlier while smaller breeds become senior dogs later in life.
With dogs, aging is often a slow and gradual process that begins with subtle physical and behavioral changes.
Here are some ways to care for your aging dog: and keep them healthy and happy 😊 as they face some of the challenges that come with being a senior.
1. Set Up Semi-Annual Vet Visits 👩🏻⚕️🩺- Now is a good idea to increase your dog’s wellness exams.
2. Stick to a Healthy Diet 🥩 🐟🥕🥦
It’s definitely tempting to start indulging your pet more in their old(er) age, but it’s actually more important than ever to keep their diet healthy and balanced. Too many calories at this stage in their life could lead to inflammation and weight gain.
3. Introduce Supplements as Guided by Your Vet
Ask us about introducing certain supplements, such as fish oil (good for bones, joints, skin, and coat), glucosamine (good for joints), and/or probiotics (good for digestive health).
4. Keep an Eye 👁️ Out for Subtle Signs of Discomfort 😣
Some things to look for include limping, difficulties changing position, difficulties climbing stairs or jumping, and lying down when eating or drinking 😣
5. Monitor (and Mix Up) Your Dog’s Activity Levels
As they age, they might need some more encouragement to stay active but follow
their lead on how much they are up for. Try out some new activities. Swimming, 🏊 for example, is great for weight management and your dog’s joints.
6. Play Some Brain Games
Mental exercise is just as crucial as physical exercise for your dog’s well-being. Help keep their brain 🧠 sharp with stimulating activities like puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, and treat “scavenger hunts” around the house.
7. Go On Adventures
Quality time with your dog becomes even more important as they get older. Make the most of every moment together—and give them all new sounds, sights, and smells to explore—by engaging in regular adventures together. Hop in the car 🚘 and check out a nearby forest preserve, beach 🏝 , or park that you don’t normally visit for a fun outing that will brighten up 🌞 both your days.
8. Add in More Grooming Sessions
As your dog gets older, they might have a tougher time grooming themselves. Help pick up the slack with more at-home grooming sessions 🧼 , including lots of brushings . Not only will this allow you to keep your dog looking and feeling their best, it will also provide you with an opportunity to check for new lumps, bumps, or areas of irritation.
9. Don’t Neglect Dental Care
Aging dogs are at an increased risk of things like gum disease and cracked teeth 🦷 , which are painful, serious conditions that require vet attention.
10. Make Some Home 🏠 Updates
Some ideas include swapping out their old bed for an orthopedic and/or heated option, setting up some pet stairs next to their favorite pieces of furniture, and placing rugs on slippery surfaces like tile and wood 🪵. The goal is to keep your dog as safe and comfortable 🤗 as possible, and to help them maintain some of their independence, even as they slow down.
It’s inevitable that your dog’s needs will evolve as they age. Pay close attention and be sure to show them all of the love they deserve. Spending time together—and being appreciative for every moment—is the best way to enjoy your dog’s senior years ❣️
