Your dog ages just as you do. Their time scale is very different however. The smaller breeds may be senior in eight to nine years while the larger breeds may be senior at six or seven years. Senior dogs may be less active and have decreased calorie requirements. Some may have signs of arthritis or other chronic health issues. Weight control and dietary management can go a long way towards minimizing the negative changes that can occur with aging.

Examinations and Vaccinations

Vaccination requirements for senior dogs are similar to young adults. Occasionally, specific health conditions may make some vaccines unneeded.

Older dogs tend to age and change more rapidly. Twice yearly examinations can help identify problems sooner, such as lumps, weight loss, eye issues, dental problems, heart murmurs and others. Aging is unavoidable but some of the related consequences can be prevented or minimized.

Parasites

Parasites are still a potential problem for senior pets. Fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites and heartworms will still try to make a living from your older dog. Continuing preventive control can spare your pet from the negative effects of these pests.

Dental Care

Older pets are at an increased risk of dental and other oral problems. Their teeth and gums have been working daily to help serve their nutritional and play needs. Broken teeth, periodontal disease and oral tumors are more common in our senior pets. A thorough examination under anesthesia allows detection of problems so effective treatments can be implemented.

Behavior

Changes in activity and mobility are expected as our pets age. Some things are the result of changes in metabolism but some may actually be signs of treatable conditions such as arthritis, hormonal imbalances, or chronic liver or kidney issues. Some dogs will develop hearing and vision problems that will alter behavior. Others can show signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome or dementia. There is medication that may improve this problem for some dogs.

Getting older is unavoidable but with some extra attention our senior dogs can enjoy a longer, more active, and comfortable life.