In exchange for your dog’s companionship and loyalty, give him the care he needs in his or her old age. Caring for an old dog is not much different from caring for old family members.

Know the Signs of Old Age

When your dog starts to slow down or wakes up in the morning with stiff joints, your dear dog is showing early signs of aging. Your old Sporty might have hearing loss, and his skin and coat have lost their shine. He does not care to lie on the tile floor but prefers the rug during summer and winter. Other signs of aging include loss of appetite, blindness or partial blindness, and wounds heal slowly.

Caring for Dogs with Stiff Joints

Dogs, like humans, suffer excruciating pain from stiff joints or arthritis. There are pills to lessen the pain. Sporty need exercise, so take him out for short walks. Massage his muscles to tone his aging muscles and to keep blood circulation working. However, don’t push him too far. Those joints hurt!

Incontinence

Sporty can no longer control his bladder. He has to be prodded to urinate outside. If this is impossible, a dog bed that has water proofing will do. Better yet, confine him to a special corner where the stench of urine won’t bother the family.

Blindness

Before a dog goes blind, the eyes might have cataracts. The vet can do something to remove it or lessen the onslaught of this eye disease. But if Sporty goes blind or partially blind, he will need your patience, understanding, and loving care. Place him in a comfortable room and remove all obstructions on the floor. When feeding, guide him to his feeding bowl and water bowl. He will learn this new routine in time.

Diet

As dogs grow older, they tend to grow into fat. Obesity in dogs can lead to obesity-related diseases. Lower Sporty’s calorie intake and give him more vegetables and fruits. There are special food preparations to control Sporty’s weight or help him lose weight.

Bath

Old dogs need to bath, too. When their coats become matted and greasy, it is time for a bath. Do the usual routine of brushing away the tangles, dirt and grime. Sporty might not be able to stand so get a special dog bath for him. Make sure that the water is not too hot or too cold. Bath time can still be pleasant if you are patient with his slow pace.

Dry Coat

Old dogs tend to have dry coat and skin. To keep Sporty’s hair shiny, brush his coat frequently. This will stimulate the production of body oils. If Sporty’s system can no longer produce body oils, ask your vet for his recommendations for creams that would keep Sporty’s skin soft and well-moisturized.

Extras

Spend more interactive time with your dog. This will make your dog happy and contented in spite of his aches and pains. Since Sporty is getting on with the years, he might forget some routines. Retrain him but be patient. Sporty will love every minute you spend with him. How is that for showing Sporty you still care for him? After all those years, he is still your best friend.

Author Bio: Kelly Marshall is a popular contributor at ohmydogsupplies.com – where you can find dog beds, dog steps, organic dog treats, and more unique dog gear that you’ll never find at your local pet store.

Category: Pets
Keywords: dogs,caring for a dog,caring for an old dog,dog grooming tips,dog grooming