Adopting pets is common, but senior dogs tend to go overlooked. One of the reasons for this is that the vast majority of people tend to be focused on puppies and younger dogs alike. This doesn't mean that seniors should be overlooked, as they can be loving and charming in their own ways. For pet owners that would like to adopt a dog that's in its golden years, here are 4 things that you should know ahead of time.
One of the most important things that senior dog owners should know is that many of these animals have illnesses. According to companies like Assisi Animal Health, the most common conditions include arthritis and vision impairment. This doesn't even begin to detail the potential onset of cancer. Whatever the case may be, prior to taking your dog home, you should ask your veterinarian about the illnesses in question.
Another useful tip is to schedule regular veterinarian appointments for your senior dog. As is the case with people, dogs must take regular physical exams as they grow older. Not only will this help you better understand your canine's physical condition, but you can get the right prescription medicine if need be. Even though owning a senior dog can be fun, the constant nature of physical exams is indicative of a pet owner's responsibilities.
Next, be mindful of how much physical activity your senior dog receives. While it's important to be active, regardless of age, there is such a thing as going overboard in this respect. What this means is that your dog should be given consistent walks, either around on the block or just up and down the street. Not only is this one of the easier methods of exercise, but your dog's underlying health problems would be aggravated.
What about food, which is another talking point that should be covered in relation to senior dogs? When canines grow older, they seem to require different nutrients more than they did in the past. By reducing calories and increasing fiber, you can go a long way in making your dog's regimen better. If you're looking for more specifics on the matter, you should get in touch with your veterinarian as early as possible.
One of the most important things that senior dog owners should know is that many of these animals have illnesses. According to companies like Assisi Animal Health, the most common conditions include arthritis and vision impairment. This doesn't even begin to detail the potential onset of cancer. Whatever the case may be, prior to taking your dog home, you should ask your veterinarian about the illnesses in question.
Another useful tip is to schedule regular veterinarian appointments for your senior dog. As is the case with people, dogs must take regular physical exams as they grow older. Not only will this help you better understand your canine's physical condition, but you can get the right prescription medicine if need be. Even though owning a senior dog can be fun, the constant nature of physical exams is indicative of a pet owner's responsibilities.
Next, be mindful of how much physical activity your senior dog receives. While it's important to be active, regardless of age, there is such a thing as going overboard in this respect. What this means is that your dog should be given consistent walks, either around on the block or just up and down the street. Not only is this one of the easier methods of exercise, but your dog's underlying health problems would be aggravated.
What about food, which is another talking point that should be covered in relation to senior dogs? When canines grow older, they seem to require different nutrients more than they did in the past. By reducing calories and increasing fiber, you can go a long way in making your dog's regimen better. If you're looking for more specifics on the matter, you should get in touch with your veterinarian as early as possible.
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