Our dogs are our family. They are there for us during the good times and the bad times. Sometimes, they’re even able to pick up that we’re not having a good day and try to help us get better. Because of that, it’s good that we do the same. As our older dogs reach elder status, we have to make sure to watch them and help them live out their golden years peacefully. After all, we love our dogs and want to keep them smiling. Here’s some tips on how to keep that smile going.
- A Healthy Diet
First, it’s best to make sure that your dog is eating right. That means you have to be especially careful of what your dog is eating as he gets older. That’s right, the days when you’re dog can “accidentally” eat part of your shoe and keep going strong are long gone. Be prepared to watch your dog like a hawk and to monitor everything he eats.
In addition to that, it’s better to be proactive when it comes to his diet. You must keep his weight centered as you don’t want him to become malnourished but you really don’t want him to become overweight. Overweight dogs are more susceptible to diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and more. If you are not sure what to be feeding him, use that pet insurance and go to the vet. Your vet can tell you the proper food to feed your good to keep his weight in the perfect range. - Vet Visits
Speaking of, it’s best to schedule regular visits when the veterinarian. This is to ensure that not only do you know the ins and outs of senior dog care, but also so that you can catch any illnesses at their earliest moments. And as stated above, this would be a great time to determine the weight and health of your dog and take action based off of what your vet has to say. Having regular examinations means the difference between a surprise and a smile. - Dental Health
One other factor to consider is dental health. You should brush your dog’s teeth in order to keep his oral hygiene up to code. One trick to doing this if you have an antsy dog is to give him a treat or toy that is made for dental health. Now you don’t have to do all the work. - Grooming
Just like with dental health, it’s also good to maintain your dog’s other physical attributes. That means you’ve got to stay on top of grooming your dog. Clip or file your dog’s toe nails so they stay health. Cut her hair when necessary so that it doesn’t become matted. Also, bathe her. Don’t do it suddenly to freak her out, but do it regularly enough to keep her coat shiny and looking as beautiful as her personality is. - Be Willing to Adjust
You also have to remember that you may have to switch things up and switch them around depending on whatever your dog needs. Senior dog care means constantly monitoring your dog and doing whatever’s necessary to take care of her. So, if your dog needs new bedding, get it. If your dog can’t get up the stairs anymore, move her stuff downstairs. These tips for senior dog care ensures your dog stays healthier, longer. - Exercise
This is perhaps the most obvious and important part of senior dog care. Make sure your dog stays active. While there will be a slowing down of your dog’s movement, it is important that he doesn’t stop all together. It’s basic physics after all. You want to make sure he stays in motion. In order to do that, take your dog for walks, have him join dog parks or outings with other dogs, and get him lots of toys that keep him active.
You love your dog and it’s important you keep her healthy and moving. Do this by monitoring him and making sure that she’s keeping healthy habits. Also, adjust the world around her to help make things easier, but don’t go to easy on her. You want her to be healthy and happy for as long as possible. As a member of her family, it’s the right thing for you to do.