Dogs get the label of being a senior when they are seven years and above. Large breed dogs are considered to be ageing at just 5 or 6 years. These old or senior dogs get a personality makeover, their fur appears to be greying and their eyes look soulful. They are seldom known to be over-enthusiastic or always playful when they become seniors.
Old & Ageing Dogs
Old age is the time when they need your maximum love, care, and attention from their pet owners. However, not all dogs are lucky, many of these old dogs are abandoned by uncaring pet owners. Most dogs past their prime youth are left behind at shelter homes. Thanks to some of the best animal trusts in Noida, old or elderly dogs are given adequate shelter and loving care at these shelter homes.
Medical Challenges Faced by Old Pets
- Hearing & Vision Loss – Dogs when they reach old age may develop a loss of senses. There could be an underlying medical condition or it may be due to natural ageing. For example, repeated non-responsiveness to normal commands can mean a decline in cognitive functions. Other hearing loss signs may include sleeping more soundly even in noisy environments, becoming startled quickly, and sensitivity towards strange sounds. Consulting a veterinarian can help provide diagnostic treatment.
- You may also notice vision loss signs such as bumping into things, avoiding climbing stairs or jumping on furniture (like they used to previously), and changes visible in the appearance of one or both eyes.
- Dental Issues – More than 80% of senior dogs are affected by periodontal disease. It can cause pain in the mouth area and affect their eating habits. It can also lead to gum infections and bone loss. It is necessary to brush their teeth regularly with doggy toothpaste and have them checked by an experienced veterinarian.
Signs of tooth decay can include bad breath, always favouring one side of the mouth while eating, not eating food, and constantly pawing at the affected area. Bleeding gums and excessive drooling can also hint at dental problems.
- Osteoarthritis – It is a typical condition in older dogs when they suffer from joint pains due to the friction of bones against each other. This can cause pain and even inflammation. Giant dog breeds and overweight dogs are more likely to get arthritis. The symptoms may include being less active, stiffness experienced after long periods of rest, lameness while walking, changes in gait, reluctance in climbing stairs, and showing signs of pain.
Caring for Old Dogs
Dogs may also suffer from many other grave diseases like cancer, UTI, kidney disease, liver disease, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. From in-house veterinarians to regular consultations with top medical experts, the best animal trusts in Noida such as Earthlings Trust offer the finest medical treatment for older dogs with chronic conditions. They also help introduce simple and fun ways to keep older pets healthy and active for a longer period.
Exercising Older Dogs
Exercise and physical activities can extend a dog’s life and help reduce tension, mood swings, and imbalance of emotions. The right exercise can boost endorphins and prevent obesity in dogs. Regular physical training can help maintain the perfect muscle mass and keep their hearts healthy.
Active Social Life
Although dogs are social animals, elderly dogs may not be fit enough to keep up with young dogs and may get frustrated by young puppies. Nevertheless, they do enjoy spending time with dogs of their age even if they are not frolicking like the young ones. With age, many dogs lose the chance to lead an active social life. You can thus volunteer in one of the best animal trusts in Noida to help the animals mingle and interact with other dogs to experience a contented and fun-filled life.
List of Exercises for Senior Dogs
- Walking – Dogs love to go for a walk, irrespective of their age and size. Older dogs may need shorter paths and frequent rests.
- Swimming – Most dogs enjoy playing in water, and swimming can be a wondrous form of exercise as it is gentler on their joints. Just make sure that they are properly dried off before they catch a cold.
- Fun Scent Games – Dogs enjoy games involving finding things or scent games. They have a great sense of smell. Older dogs with a good sense of smell can be made to find high-odour natural treats. You can play in a less distracted area where they can focus on the game.
Love, Care & Mercy
Old pets and senior dogs in shelter homes can face umpteen challenges because of their age. Sudden and increased reactions to loud sounds, confusion, sleeping for longer hours, disorientation, slow interaction, irritability, and not adhering to commands are some of the drawbacks of old age. However, at the end of the day, they do need their daily dose of love, care, shelter, and food.
To achieve this, reputed animal trusts need full support from devoted animal lovers in India. You can help by offering donations, dog foods, medical kits, adopting an older dog, volunteering to help in the shelter homes, etc.
Make a Donation
Older dogs have to be treated with kid gloves, with a lot of patience and love, so that they are comfortable in the twilight phase of their lives. Only the best animal trusts in Noida like Earthlings Trust can do justice to the elderly dogs by giving them utmost support, care, medical aid, and unconditional love. Like your older family members, these animals also depend on your mercy and deserve peace and quiet before moving on to the rainbow bridge!
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