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Caring for Your Senior Dog

Old friends are the best friends

Thanks to dramatic advances in veterinary science, dogs are living longer and healthier lives than they were just a few decades ago. Modern nutrition, therapeutics, and preventive care have extended both the quantity and quality of a dog's golden years.

Time Flies

It might seem like just yesterday when you brought home that adorable, playful puppy, but time flies! It's said that a dog ages seven years for every human year. This is somewhat inaccurate. The rate at which your dog ages depends more on lifestyle, environment, and especially size. Large dogs generally age faster than small dogs. Large and giant breed dogs (over 50 lbs) are considered "senior" by the time they are six to seven years old. Medium breeds (20-50 lbs) reach their golden years at around age nine. Small dogs and toy breeds become seniors as late as their early teens. For a fun online age calculator, go to www.dogage.com.

What is Aging?

Aging is a normal biologic process associated with gradual decreases in organ function that increase the susceptibility to disease. The results of aging are slowly progressive and often irreversible. But with close attention and proper care, it is often possible to "slow the clock," extending your dog's good quality of life for many years.

The following are some changes you might expect to see as your dog ages:

• Graying around the face and muzzle
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Hair coat becomes thinner and duller
• Elbow calluses
• Gradual loss of muscle mass
• Decreased mobility
• Lower energy level
• Weight gain
• Hazy blue tint to the eyes
• Decreased senses of hearing, smell, vision, and taste
• Dental disease, bad breath
• Increased need for sleep, more difficult to rouse
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
• Personality changes

The signs of aging are natural and occur very slowly, often without notice. Sudden or dramatic changes in your older dog's appearance or behavior should not be considered normal, and may signal that something else is wrong; in these cases you should consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Diseases that are More Common in Older Dogs

Certain diseases are much more prevalent as dogs age. Breed and lifestyle can indicate risk factors. For instance, small breeds are more susceptible to chronic valvular disease, a common heart condition; large athletic dogs are more prone to arthritis. Never assume your dog's problems are just from old age and therefore nothing can be done. They may indicate a common medical problem that is quite treatable. Examples include:

Arthritis. In dogs as in people, years of wear and tear can be hard on the joints. The canine arthritis sufferer may be stiffer in the morning, have trouble rising or using stairs, and do worse after brisk exercise or in cold weather. A thorough veterinary exam, which may include x-rays, can pinpoint where your dog is sore and rule out other ailments. Treatment often includes more than one of the following: weight loss, anti-inflammatories, nutritional supplements, and even acupuncture or aquatherapy. Effective treatment can give your dog a whole new lease on life.

Cancer. The "C"" word strikes fear into the heart of any dog owner. Cancer in dogs is not the death sentence it once was, thanks to advances in detection and treatment. If you see a new lump on your dog, or an old bump that is changing, have it checked by your veterinarian. Internal tumors can present more subtly, and symptoms depend on where they are located. For example, a stomach tumor may cause vomiting, or a lung tumor may cause a cough. Unfortunately, some tumors cause few obvious signs. This is why routine health checks by your veterinarian are critical. He or she can detect subtle trends in your dog's health profile. Talk with your veterinarian about which screening tests are most appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and health status. Early detection is the best weapon against cancer.

Chronic Kidney Disease. This condition causes weight loss, increased thirst and urination. It is diagnosed with simple blood and urine tests. Treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease, correcting chemical imbalances in the blood, and includes special diets, medication, and various forms of fluid therapy.

Cognitive Dysfunction. Age-related dementia happens in geriatric dogs just as it does in older humans. Symptoms include confusion or disorientation, irritability, altered sleep/wake cycles, nighttime restlessness, appetite loss, and loss of housetraining. Phobias and other anxiety-related behavior problems your dog already has can intensify. Medication can be helpful in certain cases, as are special diets, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and even behavioral enrichment strategies (such as hide-and-seek games). It's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine what treatment program is best for your dog.

Dental Disease. This is the most common disease affecting older dogs, and its significance is often underestimated. In fact one study showed that 80% of dogs already have a form of dental disease by just three years of age. Dental problems can cause pain, difficulty eating, and gumline infections that can travel via the bloodstream and affect vital organs. Your veterinarian will recommend a dental care plan that may include home care (toothbrushing), special diets, and professional cleanings.

Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes occurs in dogs as well as humans. In both cases, diet, lifestyle, and genes are to blame. Symptoms include weight loss, excessive thirst and urination, and appetite changes. It is diagnosed with the same simple blood and urine tests as kidney disease. Early detection of diabetes is critical, before irreversible complications arise. Dietary management and insulin therapy are the cornerstones of treatment.

Eye Problems. These tend to be more common in "bulgy-eyed" breeds such as pugs and shih-tzus, but any dog can be affected. Glaucoma, chronic dry-eye, and cataracts are some examples. Your veterinarian can address these issues or refer your dog to a veterinary ophthalmologist for state-of-the-art care.

Heart Disease. There are various forms of heart disease in older dogs, the most common of which is chronic valvular disease (CVD). Aging changes in the heart valves make them leaky, causing a heart murmur that your veterinarian detects on a routine exam. Without treatment, CVD progresses to heart failure. However, medications are very effective when CVD is caught early.

Hormonal Imbalances. Hormone function can go haywire in elderly dogs. Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) results from an overactive adrenal gland (and sometimes an overactive pituitary) whereas hypothyroidism results from an underactive thyroid. These diseases are often picked up during a regular veterinary checkup, based on breed susceptibility, telltale symptoms, or abnormal blood tests. Many hormonal conditions are managed quite effectively with medication.

Liver Disease. A variety of conditions can affect the liver of older dogs, and are detected on simple blood tests. Medications and dietary management can improve function and minimize long-term risk of liver failure.

Urinary Incontinence. If your older spayed female dog occasionally leaks urine in her bed or on the way out for a walk, aging and hormone changes are most likely to blame. Your veterinarian will conduct tests to rule out other problems. Medication can be very helpful.

How Can I Help Keep My Older Dog Healthy?

Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy plan for your dog's golden years. Decreased activity levels and mobility challenges often lead to weight gain. This in turn aggravates any mobility challenges, and a vicious cycle ensues. Feed your dog a high quality, reduced calorie diet made especially for seniors. Senior diets have better digestibility, and contain extra fiber and vitamins to accommodate slower digestive function. They also contain antioxidants for improved immune function, and omega-3 fatty acids for joint health and a better haircoat. Nutritional supplements can also be beneficial (see box). Be sure to consult your veterinarian for specific advice about the best nutrition for your older dog. Consider an elevated feeder to make mealtime easier. And don't forget to provide plenty of fresh water daily.

Your dog's senior years are precious. One-on-one bonding and special attention to details will deepen your friendship and help her thrive. Grooming your dog helps improve the haircoat and promotes circulation. Moderate daily exercise aids with weight control, prevents injury, and keeps him limber. Hide-and-seek games with toys or treats help keep him mentally sharp. Provide a warm, well-padded orthopedic bed on each level of your home so your dog can rest her bones and joints comfortably without having to climb a flight of stairs. If your dog is used to sleeping on your bed, provide a ramp or doggy stairs to prevent the need for jumping. Cover slippery wood or tile floors with non-slip mats. Try to limit environmental stressors like extreme heat or cold, unfamiliar surroundings, curious children, or a rambunctious new pet.

An older dog enjoys a warm sunset

And finally, preventive veterinary care is critical, even if your dog looks and seems perfectly healthy. Senior dogs should see the vet for a routine health screen at least twice yearly. Your veterinarian will ask a series of questions followed by a full physical and laboratory evaluation aimed at early detection and treatment of health setbacks. She or he will be glad to help construct a comprehensive plan for the best health, nutrition and comfort of your older dog.

With luck and conscientious care, your old dog can live for many happy years . . . and even learn some new tricks!