Just because a dog is old and frail doesn’t mean he can’t be happy or healthy. When you see an old dog enjoying himself, it means someone has been taking good care of him. There are many things we can do to make the life of our pets easier when old age begins to affect them, as this is part of our responsibility when we own a dog.
Dogs live around the equivalent of about 10-15 human years, sometimes more, sometimes less. It all depends on the breed of dog, his health and whether or not he suffers from certain diseases or conditions. But even if your pet is healthy and belongs to a breed that has high life expectancy, when it ages, they will suffer from inconveniences. One of these is arthritis, and dogs suffer from it in a similar way us humans do. The joints get stiff, their energy level is diminished, their eyesight and hearing become less accurate. Dog incontinence is another possible problem. Thankfully, their sense of smell usually remains strong and even old age can’t do much against that.
Old dogs appreciate an orthopedic bed. These are warm and comfy, and help cushion their bones and joints. There are also heated beds and blankets, or bed warmers if you want to make things a little cozier for your pet. The combination of comfort and warmth has a very therapeutic effect on him. Because they have lesser energy levels, they tend to slack a lot. This isn’t good as it can lead to obesity, and that leads to further health complications. That is why exercise should still remain a priority, although you shouldn’t wear him out too much. Settle for a few shorter walks instead of a single, long one.
Diet is also important for an old dog. While they burn calories less efficiently, you should still feed them a considerable amount of food. Instead of reducing the quantity, choose food that has a lower calorie count. You can also ask your vet for dietary recommendations. Speaking of veterinarians, you should do frequent checkups to see if everything is in order.
There are numerous products out there that can help lessen the problems of old age for your dog. With a little knowledge, you can help your canine friend live a comfortable life, and both of you can enjoy these last years together.
