| Your pet's later years can be very special as long as you know how
to care for them during this unique time. Recognizing
Your Dog Is Getting Older
Older dogs go through physical changes in
their later years, just as people do. The most practical way to tell if your dog
is getting older is by observing his behavior and appearance. Here are some common
signs of aging, and what they may indicate about your dog's health. Changes
in Hearing
Hearing loss is common among older dogs. You can tell if
your dog's hearing isn't as sharp as it used to be if he doesn't respond to his
name or verbal commands, or suddenly barks for no reason. Changes
in Urination
Excessive thirst and frequent or uncontrolled urination
are often signs of kidney problems or diabetes. Changes
in Housebreaking Habits
Inappropriate urination may be a sign of incontinence
caused by a hormone imbalance (most common in spayed females) or other medical
conditions. Your veterinarian should be contacted if you notice incontinence in
your dog. Changes in Eating Habits
An older
dog is more likely to develop tooth and gum disease. And because of sore gums
or loose teeth, he may let food drop out of his mouth or even refuse to eat.
Breathing Problems
Dogs are susceptible to heart
disease. Coughing, difficulty in breathing and tiredness could indicate possible
cardiac problems. Changes in Vision
A hazy,
bluish cast on your aging dog's eyes is normal and usually does not hinder the
eyesight. However, the hazy, whitish growth of cataracts can lead to blindness.
Your veterinarian can help you distinguish the difference. Weight
Gain
Like humans, a dog's metabolism slows down as he gets older. And
because older dogs may not be as active as they used to be, they have a tendency
to gain weight. Weight Loss
Sudden weight
loss or unplanned chronic weight loss should be reported to your veterinarian.
This could be a sign of an internal problem. Skin and
Coat
For older dogs, you'll notice that the skin thickens and becomes
less pliable. It's a good idea to check for large lumps on or under the skin.
This could be a sign of a tumor, cyst or cancer. You will also notice changes
in his hair, like greying around the muzzle, ears, and light whiskers.
Tiredness and Lameness
As a dog gets older, you'll
notice a decrease in energy level. He becomes tired more easily and likes to nap
often. He can experience stiffness in his leg, hip and shoulder joints. This could
just be normal wear and tear, or it could be a result of an old injury or a sign
of arthritis. Check with your veterinarian for a professional opinion and appropriate
treatment. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Ralston Purina Canada. | 
