A dog really is the best companion you can find. They will provide you with unconditional love, entertainment and company. It’s not all too surprising that every year, so many of us end up deciding to adopt or buy a dog. More often than not, people choose puppies and will put a lot of time and research into how they need to care for their puppy, ensuring they get the right injections, weaning them from puppy food to adult food, socializing them and more. This is great. But it’s also important that you know how to best care for your dog as they age. Dogs can live long lives, with some living into their twenties. Like people, they are likely to begin to experience health conditions and difficulties as they reach their later years. It’s important that you know how to support them through this. Here are some suggestions to help!
Insurance
You really need to make sure that your dog is insured as they age. All dogs should be insured at all times, but older dogs do tend to experience more health complaints or may require ongoing medication. Insurance can help to cover this and the cost of any larger treatments or procedures to ensure their ongoing health. Sure, the price of the policy may begin to rise as they age, but you need to make sure that thye are covered regardless.
Regular Check-Ups
When your dog is young, you may find that they only really need to attend checkups when they have their annual boosters or if something significant happens. When your dog is older, routine checkups can help to keep your vet up to date on their wellbeing and can ensure that any issues are identified and supported or treated at as early a stage as possible. Check-in with your vet routinely.
Alternative Treatments
You may find that your dog requires alternative treatments to help them. Perhaps they have been inactive or you have fed them a few too many treats and they need to lose weight. Water therapy can do this in a way that is easy on their joints. They may have aches and pains that can be resolved by a Dog Chiropractor. Speak to your vet for individualized recommendations for your pooch.
Slower Walks
Your dog may slow down, but you need to make sure that you’re still going for daily walks. You might just have to slow your pace or go shorter distances. Exercising will keep them in better shape than if you abandon exercise altogether. It can also make them much happier!
Comfort
Make sure that your dog is comfortable. As they grow older, their joints may begin to ache or hurt and softer beds, more cushions and generally cozier living conditions can really help with this. You may even be able to find cooling or heated mats that are particularly effective.
These are just a few suggestions. Every dog is different and has individual needs and requirements as they grow older, but hopefully, some of the information outlined above should help!