Taking care of an older dog

Author: Neol David

Well I guess you know Dogs age faster than us. One dog year is more closer to a person aging eight years in life. Before we realize, we have to face issues related Health of your old pal. It is therefore important that you have common knowledge of older dog health and how you can better supply your pet through his older dog health years.

It can be very hard to determine older dog health issues that may arise because different breeds age at different rates. For example it is known that large dogs age more quickly than smaller dog breeds.

The first step in caring for older dog health may not be an easy step to start because many people are unsure of exactly when their dog is reaching those senior citizen years. The changes in older dog health symptoms come slowly at times. The signs of age appear gradually and are often difficult to notice.

As aging advances, heart, liver, and kidneys lose their efficiency, and the immune system is less able to fight off attacks by bacteria and viruses. Bladder control may be affected, and muscles decrease in size and function.

You may not even notice until many years later that your dog's coat seems less shiny, less clean, and not as well groomed at it used to be. These are signs that your dog has hit his late years in life. You might also notice that the hairs around your dog's muzzle will start to turn white for a few year.

Other signs including loss of hearing and some sight problems. Dogs can compensate for these conditions, So these mostly go unnoticed.

Well if your dog is getting old then do not panic. In these situations you need to take care of your old pal, just in the different way.

Diet : It is only common sense that our pet dogs should be put on a steady diet of high quality dog nutrition.This is especially true of older dogs who have hit their ""senior citizen"" years and are in need of better, more targeted dog nutrition.

You will be gradually changing up the amount of food that you are feeding your older dog. You will also be changing up the number of times that feeding will take place. One good habit you should start immediately with dog nutrition is to start feeding them very small meals throughout the day.

Your veterinarian should be able to suggest the best supplement for your dog when it comes to these vitamins and minerals. They may include zinc, vitamin B, and calcium.

Exercise for Older dogs Give your pet more exercise by taking walks, joining a dog club, fencing your yard, or babysitting a younger pet. If you always take your dog for the same walk, try a new route to a new park, even if the dog is resistant. New experiences are good, this will keep him sharp.

Since dogs experience more health problems as they age, it makes sense that they see a veterinarian more often. In addition, any change in a geriatric pet's behavior warrants a visit to the veterinarian. Visit to your Vet at least once per six months

About the author: Author : Neol David is Retire Major who now lives on small farm with his 2 dogs(german shepherd) and 1 cat. Check Out his Dog Behavior and obedience training site