Aging Well, in Dog Years

Aging Well, in Dog Years

As the precious years race past, your canine companion will require more care and attention. He may face more illnesses as his body gets older, but some of the changes you observe will be elements of the normal aging process.

Older dogs often suffer from joint pain. This is usually not too difficult to recognize: common signs are stiffness on rising from rest, difficulty climbing up or down stairs, and increased pain following bouts of physical activity. Age-related joint pain does not appear abruptly; sudden changes in a pet’s discomfort level are more likely a signal of recent injury. A few lifestyle changes can be combined with medication to make your arthritic pet more comfortable. Consider minimizing his use of stairs, reducing his weight to the level recommended by your doctor, and judicious use of anti-inflammatory medications. If he suffers after a round of exuberant play, you may have to make a tough decision on how his quality of life will be affected if his play sessions are restricted.

Another condition common in older dogs, especially females, is urine leakage. The household laundry routine will be affected, but bladder infections and painful skin conditions may also result. Many cases of urinary leakage can be treated with oral medication. Diapers can cause skin infection when left on for extended periods, so use them with caution—if at all.

Many older dogs take some sort of medicine every day. Your pet needs an advocate in the exam room, so remember to mention all of his medicines whenever you see the doctor, in case the old guy is developing a new condition that conflicts with his current prescriptions. Since internal organs become less efficient and more prone to damage with advancing age, your vet will require regular exams and blood work to ensure that they are robust enough for daily exposure to the medicine.

Elderly dogs exhibit measurable deterioration of their brain tissue, sight, hearing, and immune system. Because these body systems allow him to adapt to changes in his environment, your old dog might require a more predictable day-to-day routine. He just doesn’t have the capacity to switch gears that easily any more. This might manifest as digestive upset after subtle diet changes or a prolonged recovery period after increased exercise. We may also see alterations in the sleep-wake cycle, decreased overall arousal level, and diminished social interaction with people. When changes like this occur, your first move should be to have the pet examined in case you are observing a sign of illness, as opposed to normal aging.

Aging is a very common concern for humans, and that makes it big business in the health-food store. Dogs metabolize supplements differently than humans do, however, and could be harmed by a compound that is safe for people. Remember, too, that the manufacture of dietary supplements is not closely regulated. Make any household changes that will ease the aging process for your dog, but please, consult your veterinarian before trying any anti-aging supplements on your canine companion.

Dr. M.S. Regan