When Does “Senior” Start?

So when is a pet considered a senior? Generally, smaller breeds of dogs live longer than larger breeds, and cats live longer than dogs. Beyond that, the life span will vary with each individual, and your veterinarian will be able to help you determine what stage of life your furry friend is in.

Senior Health Exams

Scheduling regular veterinary examinations is one of the most important steps pet owners can take to catch and delay the onset or progress of disease and for the early detection of problems such as organ failure and osteoarthritis. Keep in mind that every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to 5–7 human years. In order stay current with your senior pet’s health care, twice-a-year exams are a must.

Nutrition

Many older pets benefit from specially formulated food that is designed with older bodies in mind. Obesity in pets is often the result of reduced exercise and overfeeding and is a risk factor for problems such as heart disease. Because older pets often have different nutritional requirements, these special foods can help keep your pet’s weight under control and reduce consumption of nutrients that are risk factors for the development of diseases, as well as organ- or age-related changes.

Exercise

Exercise is yet another aspect of preventive geriatric care for your pets. You should definitely keep them going as they get older—if they are cooped up or kept lying down, their bodies will deteriorate much more quickly. You may want to ease up a bit on the exercise with an arthritic or debilitated cat or dog. Otherwise, you should keep them as active—mentally and physically—as possible in order to keep them sharp.

Please call us if you have concerns about your aging pet.  There are many new products available now to help keep your pets active and comfortable for many years to come. Schedule a visit today.

Thunderstorms and fireworks: Many dogs don’t like the loud noise.  Keep them in safe place where they can’t escape, hurt themselves, or do damage.  A crate with a blanket over it can be a safe haven.  Some dogs may require medication to help reduce the stress.

Toxins: Fertilizers and chemicals can be useful in the right situation but deadly in others.  Keep all products away where pets can’t reach or eat and keep pets off lawns recently treated.    Another serious and seemingly harmless toxin is algae in ponds.  If ingested, this can cause serious illness or death for your pet.

Heat Stroke: Dogs cool themselves by panting and through their nose and pads on their feet.  So they can overheat easily.  Signs of heat stoke include excessive panting, dark red gums, reluctant or unable to stand and loss of consciousness.  If you have even the slightest suspicion that your dog is suffering from heat stroke, you must take immediate action.  Move your dog out of the heat and sun and begin cooling him down by placing cool, wet rags on his body, especially head and feet area.  DO NOT immerse in cold water or use ice.  Call your veterinarian for further care.

Water Safety:  Remember the buddy system.  Even the best swimmers need supervision, including your dog.  Don’t let your dog swim in a pond with algae.

Travel: Everyone likes a road trip.  Use a seat belt for your pet, NEVER leave him in a parked car, and make sure he has ID on his collar or is microchipped, just in case.

For a handy brochure on first aid to print and keep in a ready place, click here.