Senior dogs have unique and specific needs. As they approach their golden years, different care requirements may become necessary. Senior citizens and their caregivers are smart to be prepared so they can make sure their aging dog is living the best life possible. Knowing what changes to expect is a good way to start.
Seniors in the Charleston and North Charleston area might witness some obvious and not-so-obvious changes in their dogs as they age. These changes are completely normal and natural and not usually cause for alarm. Here are five common changes to look out for:
Reduced Mobility and Activity
Just like people, dogs slow down a little as they get older. They may not enjoy the extra long walks or vigorous play times as much as they did when they were younger. This is normal progression and it might be necessary to adapt to less strenuous exercise routines in your Awendaw neighborhood. Your senior dog could also experience a little stiffness making it more difficult to climb the stairs or jump up onto the bed.
What you can do — It is always a good idea to have your senior dog checked out at a local Mt. Pleasant vet to determine whether mobility issues are due to arthritis or other joint conditions.
Changes in Behavior
Behavioral changes might be one of the first things seniors notice in their aging dogs. The dog may spend more time resting or sleeping and be reluctant to engage in the usual activities. They could be more irritable and impatient with other pets preferring less social interaction than before. Sleep/wake cycles may be affected by frequent naps and a few restless nights.
What you can do — Discuss any behavioral changes with your Sullivan's Island area veterinarian to identify underlying causes and interventions. Keeping a consistent routine and minimizing environmental stress factors might help too.
Loss of Hearing or Vision
It is normal to see some degree of vision or hearing loss in senior dogs. Increasing deafness is sometimes only noticeable when your pet fails to come when called or ignores familiar cues. Vision changes are more identifiable. Your dog might have trouble locating his toys or become more clingy. Vision problems, unlike hearing loss, can often be treated by your Huger veterinary clinic.
What you can do — Communicate visually with dogs experiencing hearing loss. Teaching hand signals is easier than you might think. Your Goose Creek vet can determine if vision loss is caused by cataracts or glaucoma which can often be improved with surgery or medication.
Thinning or Graying Fur
As your dog gets older, you might find yourself admiring his distinguished silver muzzle. Going gray is normal for aging dogs. Fur can even start to turn gray before the dog is a senior. Thinning fur is also a natural process as hair follicles weaken. Of course, excessive fur loss or bald spots could indicate a medical problem. A trip to your local Isle of Palms vet might be warranted.
What you can do — Enjoy the classy canine gray and consider adding a fatty acid supplement to their dinner. Use moisturizing shampoo for bathing and keep up with flea treatments.
More Frequent Potty Breaks
Older dogs often have to go outside for a potty break more frequently. Age-related loss of muscle tone and arthritis may make it more of a challenge for them to get up and go take care of business. Senior dogs sometimes develop overactive bladders requiring extra breaks beyond their normal potty routine. Establishing a new potty schedule can help prevent accidents.
What you can do — Change up the routine by taking your dog out more often. Maintain a healthy diet and consider including an Omega-3 supplement in your dog's food. Your Hanahan vet can help with diet tips.
Choose Senior Helpers For Quality Care
Senior Helpers offers personalized custom in-home care designed to meet the specific needs of your loved ones in Charleston, North Charleston, Hanahan, Awendaw, Mt. Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Goose Creek, or Huger. Contact us anytime and let us know how our services can work for you.