This Sunday and next we'll be turning the BostonZest keyboard over to Dr Pia Torres from Back Bay Veterinary Clinic. She is one of Maggie Mae's team of veterinarians, and she has some tips about taking care of our senior dogs.
We join her in saying that you should check with your own vet before making any decisions about your senior dog's care.
Photo of Allandale Farm's dog © 2009 Penny Cherubino
When is a dog a Senior?
The point at which your dog is considered senior varies with breed as smaller breed dogs tend to live longer than larger breed dogs. For instance, a Miniature Poodle may be considered senior around 9-10 years old versus a Bernese Mountain Dog who is considered senior around age 5-6. A rule of thumb is to consider your dog “senior” once he reaches the last third of his normal life span.
One thing we are recognizing is that our pets are living longer. With this come several aging changes and illnesses of which we need to be aware. Here are some tips to provide optimal care and attention to your senior pets.
Regular Health Exams and Laboratory Testing
Keep in mind that relative to humans, dogs and cats age much more quickly than we do. One year in the life of a dog or cat equates to 5-7 human years. For this reason, it is very important that you have your pet checked regularly by your veterinarian. Twice yearly exams can be crucial to the health of your senior pet as it allows the veterinarian to pick up subtle changes that may indicate the onset of disease. Physical examination does have its limitations, however, so your veterinarian may also recommend routine blood screening to check the function of your pet’s internal systems.
Monitoring Physical Changes
Changes in your pet’s behavior or physical condition could indicate the onset of disease. Some things which should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian right away include any changes in appetite (increased or decreased), increased urination or drinking, exercise intolerance or labored breathing, coughing, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, running into things, trouble walking or coordinating, lethargy/weakness or collapse, straining to urinate or defecate, weight changes, lameness, and any new lumps or bumps.
Nutrition
Once your pet reaches “senior” age, it is important to switch them to a senior diet. These diets are aimed at improving immunity and maintaining a healthy coat and joints. Depending on the food you choose, there may be some other added benefits. Things to look for include glucosamine for joint health, antioxidants (usually derived from different fruits and veggies) to help boost the immune system, and omega 3 and/or 6 to help maintain a healthy coat and joints.
Next Sunday Dr. Torres will talk about arthritis and keeping your senior dog comfortable.
Details:
Pia
Torres, DVM
Dr.
Torres is a graduate of Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.
After graduating from veterinary school Dr. Torres completed an internship in
small animal medicine and surgery at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists in East
Greenwich, RI.
Back Bay Veterinary Clinic
324 B Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02115
www.backbayvet.com