Senior Citizen at age 6 or 7—Time Flies
It comes as a shock to some pet owners that although small dogs generally live longer, they are considered geriatric at the age of 7; and larger dogs have shorter life spans and are considered senior citizens at age 6. So if you have a geriatric canine, listen up, your dog’s health needs have changed. Work with your Dr. Whitworth at Whitworth Animal Clinic and follow these Best Practices to make sure your pet remains happy and healthy and living longer.
The Possibility of Improving Longevity for your Pet
In this article, we’re going to give tricks and tips on keeping your pet healthy and happy by empowering love and trust, providing a stress-free environment and opportunities for physical and mental exercise, as well as feeding with the right nutritions and supplements, and embracing the power of natural remedies.
Love and Attention are the Magical Ingredients
Love knows no language barriers, and our pets understand this perfectly. Discover the unspoken connection between you and your furry friend—a bond forged through affectionate gazes, gentle caresses, and endless cuddles. Unleash the power of love as you create an unbreakable bond that forms the foundation of your pet’s well-being and longevity.
Love works its magic from the inside out. It’s like a fountain of youth, powered by warm embraces and heart-melting affection. Trust and security are the building blocks of a loving relationship with our pets. Explore the art of creating a safe and secure environment where your furry friend feels protected, cherished, and loved. From consistent routines to gentle training techniques, let your pet know they are the apple of your eye. When they feel loved and secure, their hearts and bodies thrive.
Nutrition Matters
Every pet owner wants to feed the best food they can afford. The hard part is understanding what makes food good or bad. Cheap foods have inferior ingredients, poor quality control, and may contain excesses or deficiencies of various nutrients.
The best dog food for your dog is ultimately up to you to decide. As an owner, you are the one who sees your dog on a regular basis. If your dog produces firm, healthy stool, is active and fit, and has a healthy appetite, then your dog food is probably working just fine.
Hydration: Sipping for the Fountain of Youth
Water, nature’s magical elixir! Our pets rely on it as much as we do. Adequate hydration keeps their organs functioning smoothly, their coats glossy, and their energy levels high. So, let’s encourage their sipping habits by keeping their water bowls fresh and easily accessible. After all, a hydrated pet is a pet ready to tackle life’s adventures with gusto!
Canine Cardio
There’s something magical about a dog strutting their stuff on a leisurely walk. Beyond the wagging tail and nose-to-the-ground explorations, regular walks are essential for your dog’s cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Lace-up those sneakers and hit the pavement together, enjoying quality time while keeping your pup’s heart healthy and their spirits high.
Regular visits to the vet.
Healthy young dogs visit the vet one time per year. Consider taking your senior canine for bi-annual vet visits. The physical exam could reveal a problem which, if treated early, could save your pet from suffering along with improving longevity for your pet.
Your visit with Dr. Whitworth will give you a chance to discuss changes in your dog’s habits:
- Food/water consumption
- Changes in urinary and bowel habits
- Irritability
- Hearing, vision, or sleep
- Mobility
Teeth Cleaning Makes a Difference
It’s hard for your dog or cat to live a long healthy life if they don’t have teeth! Regular teeth cleaning will keep teeth and gums healthy and reduce the possibility of them falling out.
Consider changing your dog’s diet:
- Older dogs are less active so they gain weight
- Some canine health conditions can be managed through diet
- Vitamin and nutrient requirements change
There are foods on the market that target the special needs of senior pets. It’s best to consult with Dr. Whitworth about the type of food that will meet your pet’s nutrition requirements.
So true
Your pet has been a good friend. Dan Gemeinhart, author of The Honest Truth says, “Dogs die. But dogs live, too. Right up until they die, they live. They live brave, beautiful lives. They protect their families. And love us. And make our lives a little brighter. And they don’t waste time being afraid of tomorrow.”
Take good care of your canine friend so he will live to love [YOU] another day.
