Your dog’s senior years are a very special time. Although it can be a little bittersweet to see your old friend slowing down and going grey around the muzzle, older dogs truly make delightful pets. Your pup’s needs will change as he ages, however. You’ll want to focus more on keeping Fido comfortable and healthy, and less on entertaining him. Here, a Tampa, FL vet discusses senior dog care.
Suitable Exercise
It’s normal for Fido to get a bit lazy as he ages. However, your pooch will still need exercise to stay healthy, even if it’s just a walk around the block. Savor this special time with your canine buddy!
Monitor Water Intake
Sudden changes in your pet’s water intake can be a sign of medical issues. Fill Fido’s bowl at the same time(s) every day, so you can keep an eye on what he’s drinking.
Trim Fido’s Claws
Overgrown nails may not seem like much of a problem, but they actually can cause some issues. Younger dogs often file their nails down just by running around on tar and asphalt. Senior pooches aren’t quite as active, however, so their claws often get too long. When this happens, Fido may snag his nail on something, which can lead to infections. Another issue is that long nails are uncomfortable. Your pet may adjust his gait to compensate, which puts too much stress on his bones and joints.
Veterinary Appointments
Keeping up with Fido’s veterinary appointments is very important! Your vet may recommend that your pet come in a bit more often than he used to, so that his health can be monitored more closely. It’s often much easier and cheaper to treat medical issues if they are detected early.
Pain Management
Many older dogs develop health problems, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. There are now some wonderful options for helping Fido feel better and improving his quality of life. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Signs of Sickness
Keep a close eye out for signs of illness, such as lethargy, weight gain, limping, and fatigue. Call your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.
Comforts
Keep your pet’s comfort in mind. Elevated dishes, climate control, and comfy beds will all help make Fido’s retirement comfortable and easy for him.
Please contact us, your Tampa, FL vet clinic, anytime. We specialize in caring for older pets!
