Dogs: Older Dog Health Care
Older dogs should see the vet at least once a year in order to ensure that he is keeping fit. Vets may propose more regular check ups according to his condition. As an older dog he should receive a more thorough physical examination along with detailed tests according to his age, condition and medical history. This can result in an early diagnosis of a specific condition and thus prolong his life, so it sure is worth it! Apart from medical problems, keep an eye on any changes in his behavioural patterns and subsequently inform the vet.
Dog Arthritis: Arthritis is painful for your dog and affects a big proportion of the dog population. You must be able to distinguish between actual arthritis and simple changes as a result of old age. This thin line between the two results in may cases of dog arthritis remaining undiagnosed. The below symptoms can be an indication of this disease in your dog.
- Becomes easily tired. Limps.
- Appears stuff after longer walks.
- Slowly rises from his resting position.
- Reluctant to climb stairs.
If arthritis is diagnosed, pain can be effectively relieved with Rimadyl, which has helped more than 10 million dogs find relief from the pain of arthritis. Rimadyl may have some side effects such as appetite loss or vomiting. You must discuss this product with the vet and become acquainted with the more serious side effects, which result, in very rare cases death.
Older Dog Exercise: Older dogs do need exercise but not as regularly as younger ones do. You must never forget your dog’s age and condition and always focus on not overtiring him with long walks. Older dogs unfortunately may suffer deafness or blindness so bear that in mind especially when taking him for walks. A nice treat for your dog would be a nice comfortable orthopaedic bed on which he can lie on after the exercise. They usually are cushioned with heating pads, which may warm his old bones and keep him happy.
Senior Dog Diets: Older dogs have special nutritional needs in order to stay well. Diets for older dogs usually consist of foods lower in calories and fat yet higher in fibre. Furthermore, in some cases, mineral and vitamin supplements may be needed. As they are usually less active than younger dogs they have a slower metabolism and thus cannot burn calories up as fast.
Dog Vaccinations:
Vaccinating your dog is an important duty in order to protect it as well others around it, including you and your family. Some vaccinations are a must, such as that for rabies, which is actually required by law, while others are not a necessity. It is important to vaccinate puppies as this is the time they are most vulnerable to contract the disease.
Reactions:
Some animals have a systematic reaction to vaccinations such as temperature or muscle pains. You may notice that one or two days following the vaccine, your dog may eat less and sleep more. This is no cause to worry; it is just a non-permanent reaction to the shot. More serious reaction such as vomiting may occur. Giving your dog antihistamine can prevent such side effects.The component, which is the likely cause of such reactions, is known as Leptospirosis and this may actually be left out of some vaccines.
Shot requirements for puppies:
A minimum of two multivalent vaccinations are rewuired for every dog over 3 months old, these should be given three to four weeks apart. Furthermore, these should include distemper and parvo. Furthermore, a vaccination against rabies is also required. When considering vaccines against Lyme disease, Bordatella or coronavirus, a decision should be made according to the vet’s advice and the surrounding circumstances. In regards to young puppies, vaccinations usually begin at 6-8 weeks and are given every 3-4 weeks until the puppy is 16 weeks of age.
Rabies:
In most countries, rabies vaccinations are required by law. It is an awful disease, which must be prevented. Any unvaccinated pet that bites a human must undergo long quarantine periods or even death in order to test for rabies infection. By getting a rabies vaccination you protect your dog and others. Early protection can prevent parvovirus in a puppy.
According to the situation within your area, the following vaccination may be advised:
Distemper:
This is significant for all puppies. This disease remains difficult to treat successfully as even in cases where the puppy is nursed through the acute phase of the disease three can be long-term health issues. It may, for example result in the puppy having a tendency to have seizures. It is unfortunately still present in most areas.