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.
Another rule of thumb is to monitor the amount of exercise that your senior dog takes part in. If you go overboard, the likelihood of your animal friend suffering an injury will increase. There are many easier exercises that senior dogs can take part in, such as walks, that will not hinder their quality of life so much. As a matter of fact, it's largely because of these light workouts that your dog will remain in better health.
Lastly, your senior dog's diet should contain numerous vitamins for better health. Your veterinarian will stress the importance of a more balanced diet as your dog ages, so it's important to include nutrients that their bodies can benefit from. Certain fatty acids, for example, are ideal for soothing the body. This is especially worthwhile for canines with arthritis. Ask your vet about appropriate changes to be made to your pet's regimen.
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.
Another rule of thumb is to monitor the amount of exercise that your senior dog takes part in. If you go overboard, the likelihood of your animal friend suffering an injury will increase. There are many easier exercises that senior dogs can take part in, such as walks, that will not hinder their quality of life so much. As a matter of fact, it's largely because of these light workouts that your dog will remain in better health.
Lastly, your senior dog's diet should contain numerous vitamins for better health. Your veterinarian will stress the importance of a more balanced diet as your dog ages, so it's important to include nutrients that their bodies can benefit from. Certain fatty acids, for example, are ideal for soothing the body. This is especially worthwhile for canines with arthritis. Ask your vet about appropriate changes to be made to your pet's regimen.
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