Believe it or not, there are many people that are open to the idea of adopting senior dogs. While they aren't exactly as young as puppies, which goes without saying, there's something to be said about the idea of taking care of older pets. It's not always easy, though, so it's important to get as much help as possible on the matter. For those that would like to become senior dog owners, here are 4 pointers that you should remember.
First and foremost, it's normal for a senior dog to be ill. For example, as their joints stiffen and they become less limber, dogs are prone to suffering from arthritis. Not only does this negatively impact a canine's quality of life, but it's a condition that must be given regular attention as well. Fortunately, the likes of Assisi Animal Health will be able to help you lessen your animal friend's discomfort levels.
Due to the health problems discussed earlier, pet owners should set up regular health exams for their senior dogs. Your veterinarian will be able to survey the condition of your animal friend, making note of any irregularities along the way. As animals become older, it's all the more essential that they get their checkups, which isn't unlike human beings. This is yet another pointer that pet owners should take into account.
When it comes to exercise, your senior dog must only take part in activities that won't put tremendous strain on their bodies. Senior dogs aren't as durable as they used to be, so it's important to focus on workouts that will be easier on their joints. Light walks, for example, are great for not only staying fit but strengthening the circulation in a senior dog's body. Without some form of exercise, your dog may not be in the shape they should be.
Finally, it's in your senior dog's best interests for their diet to be changed. To be more specific, it should include more nutrients, which your veterinarian will be able to go over with you. For example, if your dog has arthritis, foods with fatty acids may be recommended. Fatty acids have been known to soothe aching muscles and joints, after all. This is just one of many ways that your dog's diet can be changed so that it helps them more in their older age.
First and foremost, it's normal for a senior dog to be ill. For example, as their joints stiffen and they become less limber, dogs are prone to suffering from arthritis. Not only does this negatively impact a canine's quality of life, but it's a condition that must be given regular attention as well. Fortunately, the likes of Assisi Animal Health will be able to help you lessen your animal friend's discomfort levels.
Due to the health problems discussed earlier, pet owners should set up regular health exams for their senior dogs. Your veterinarian will be able to survey the condition of your animal friend, making note of any irregularities along the way. As animals become older, it's all the more essential that they get their checkups, which isn't unlike human beings. This is yet another pointer that pet owners should take into account.
When it comes to exercise, your senior dog must only take part in activities that won't put tremendous strain on their bodies. Senior dogs aren't as durable as they used to be, so it's important to focus on workouts that will be easier on their joints. Light walks, for example, are great for not only staying fit but strengthening the circulation in a senior dog's body. Without some form of exercise, your dog may not be in the shape they should be.
Finally, it's in your senior dog's best interests for their diet to be changed. To be more specific, it should include more nutrients, which your veterinarian will be able to go over with you. For example, if your dog has arthritis, foods with fatty acids may be recommended. Fatty acids have been known to soothe aching muscles and joints, after all. This is just one of many ways that your dog's diet can be changed so that it helps them more in their older age.
About the Author:
For more information about what you've just read, please visit Assisi Animal Health.
No comments:
Post a Comment