Dog - Older Care - General Tips

Senior and geriatric dogs are at the stage of life at which the aging process is beginning to affect most organs. Some wear out faster than others, so it is important that older dogs do have regular check ups and receive special care as necessary.

Points that are particularly important include the following:

1. Make sure that vaccinations are kept up to date.
2. Groom frequently to prevent hair coat from matting.
3. Nail attention since over growth is more likely.
4. Ensure plenty of fresh water available and monitor thirst.
5. Make sure other pets do not prevent the old dog free access to food and water.
6. Keep indoors for longer periods of time, especially when the weather is cold or damp.
7. Weigh regularly – at least every month – use the same scales and keep an ongoing weight record.

Below is a list of things to look out for. If you have any concerns please contact us and we will make an appointment if necessary.

• Sustained, significant increase in water consumption (abnormal is intake greater than 100 ml/kg/day or approximately 1.5 cups/day for a 10 pound dog).
• Sustained, significant increase in urination (volume or frequency).
• Weight loss.
• Significant decrease in appetite or failure to eat for more than two consecutive days
• Significant increase in appetite.
• Repeated vomiting.
• Diarrhoea that lasts more than a couple of days.
• Any straining or difficulty in passing faeces or urine.
• If the dog suddenly becomes dirty in the house.
• Lameness that lasts more than 3 or 4 days, or lameness in more than one leg.
• Noticeable decrease in vision, especially if sudden in onset or pupils that do not constrict in bright light.
• Masses, ulcerations (open sores), or multiple scabs on the skin especially if they appear to be getting worse.
• Smelly breath, sudden drooling from the mouth or obvious difficulty chewing.
• Increasing size of the abdomen.
• Increasing inactivity or amount of time spent sleeping.
• Hair loss, especially if accompanied by scratching or if in specific areas.
• Persistent coughing or gagging.
• Excessive panting.
• Sudden collapse or weakness.
• Inability to chew dry food.
• Any seizures, convulsions or odd behaviours.