Most dog owners would agree that dogs are a blessing. They bring so much joy and love into any home. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking to see them get old.
Unfortunately, as dogs grow old, they tend to start showing symptoms of old age. They may get sick more often, or suffer from arthritis. They may also have less energy.
While this is not fun for the dogs or their human owners, growing old doesn’t have to be a bad experience for dogs. There are plenty of things that you can do to take care of your older dog, and we’re here to discuss them.
Take them to the vet
If your older dog is showing any symptoms of illness or pain, you should take them to the vet immediately. The vet will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of their discomfort, and hopefully, give you suggestions on how to fix it.
Often, this can be something as simple as not allowing your pet to jump on furniture since it can damage their joints. Other times, it may be something more severe, like your pet going on chronic medication or needing surgery. Whatever the cause, a good vet like Paoli Vetcare will be able to assist.
Keep them comfortable
As mentioned, when your pet ages, they will likely have some struggles, so if there’s anything you can do to make life easier for them, do it.
If your dog is losing their sight, for example, you shouldn’t move furniture around as this could confuse them and they could get hurt. You can also carry your dog up and down your stairs so that they don’t need to struggle with steps. If you are adopting an adult dog, be sure to make your house easy to navigate for them.]
Adjust their food
Just as puppies require specialized puppy food, your older dog will need food made specifically for them. This will likely help strengthen their joints and bones and help with their eyesight and hearing.
Of course, you should always avoid foods that are bad for your dog, no matter what age they are. Older dogs often do not have a big appetite, so play around with your dog’s eating schedule to see when they are hungry.
Once you find a food that works for them, don’t change it too often, as this may upset their stomach.
Give them love
The last tip we have is the easiest and also the most important: give your old dog lots of love! People often give dogs a lot of attention when they are young puppies, and as the dogs age, they lose interest in them.
But your old dog still loves you, and you should give them love and affection every day. Growing old can be scary for a dog because they might get confused, so you need to be there for them.
Cuddling a dog is also good for your health, so it’s a win-win situation. Remember that you never know how much time you have left with your dog, so love them while you still can.
