Age & Your Pet: What to Expect 


Changes in his/her body and stamina can be brutal for your animal.  The summer and winter seasons, especially, can be your animal's greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems. However, there are many things you as a pet owner can do to help improve your aging pet's lifestyle. Remember: Having knowledge about your pet's situation is often the best thing you can do for your pet. Read below for important information that can help you see your pet's lifestyle from a new perspective.

Slowing Down

Older pets, just like older people, experience discomfort in their joints, and can have more trouble walking than their younger versions. Thicker bedding may help older animals sleep more comfortably, and therefore not experience as much joint pain. Keep in mind that changes in weather can be much harder on animals than people, so approaching storms and temperature change may bring on a "slow day". 

Arthritis is common in dogs as they age, particularly large breeds. Arthritis can occur in any joint, most commonly the legs, neck and back (spine). Another potential cause of slowing down is hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder common in dogs. This condition is easily diagnosed and treated with proper veterinary care. Often a joint supplement like Glyco-Flex II or Actistatin (for more developed joint issues) can help cushion the joints and provide comfort, without the nasty side effects of complex medications.

Going Grey

Again, just like people, animals can "go gray" as well. Most dogs will start growing gray hairs around their face and muzzle at around 5-6 years of age, but some can develop them earlier. Grays don't mean your pet is near death, but that it's body system is changing as it gets older. No sense running to the store for hair dye-- just like humans, greying hair is a simple sign of the aging process.

Bluish, or Cloudy Eyes

As pets age, their eyes can develop a strange-looking haze. This is a normal effect of aging, and the medical term for this is lenticular sclerosis. With such cloudiness, vision does not appear to be affected. This clouding, however, is NOT the same as cataracts. Cataracts are white and opaque. Vision can be affected by cataracts, and if you feel your pet's vision is becoming challenged, your vet should be consulted. Loss of vision can be harmful and disorientating to your pet, and appropriate measures should be taken to ensure their safety and comfort.

Getting Weaker

Mild loss of muscle mass, especially the hind legs, may be seen with old age. Some muscle atrophy, notably on the head and the belly muscles, can signify diseases such as masticatory myositis and Cushing's Disease. Be sure to have your vet examine your pet if any muscle loss is noted.

Trouble Hearing

You may being to notice your pet does not come when you call, or regular noises like opening the cookie jar or pouring food in the bowl do not make them dash into the room anymore. Some pets may continue sleeping even when you walk past, or the doorbell rings.

Animals experiencing hearing loss are in more danger than other animals because their senses are diminished. Be sure to stomp on the ground a few times before waking up an older animal, as the sudden touch of a hand could cause the animal to bite (simply out of fear) or could lead to a heart attack. 


This article printed from www.dickinsonmcneill.com

For more articles like this delivered right to your inbox, visit newsletter.dickinsonmcneill.com