10 Ways on How to Take Care of an Aging Dog

As your pet friend ages, the care for them changes. That is only natural. Dogs can live up to 20 years with proper care and good health. Let’s help them get there with love and smart choices! If you are a pet parent of an older dog (10 Years Plus), you will appreciate the tips mentioned below. We will focus on Senior Dog Care Tips that are easy to follow.

1. Healthy Diet. Healthy Life.

Do not feed your lovely pets human food. It may not seem like a big deal, but table scraps are usually not healthy for dogs since many of the things we eat, such as salt, garlic, and onions, are harmful to your pet's health and can make them very sick. Also, preventing human food will help prevent unnecessary weight gain and inflammation. Instead, continue feeding portion-controlled adult dog food mixed in with canned food to soften their meals, if you like. With aging dogs, it is understandable that they may be missing some teeth. So softer foods will make their meals more pleasant.

2. Dental Care

Keep an eye out for gum disease. Gum disease affects more than 80% of dogs over the age of three. Brush your dog's teeth three times a week for at least 30 seconds. If you can brush them every day, that is even better. There are treats designed to keep your furry friend's teeth clean. Please do not use the same toothpaste for your dog. Dogs have their own toothpaste and are usually friendly to digest.

3. Invest in Pet Insurance

With close to a third of pets requiring emergency care each year, this may quickly become an expensive problem. Pet insurance can help cover these unexpected costs, as well as prescription medicine, long-term health conditions, and other issues, making it an essential investment for your family's four-legged members. Check out PawlicyAdvisor for Insurance Plans for Pets

4. Exercise Shorter Periods of Time

Unless your dog has an injury, don’t stop the exercise. Stay active. Take them on 20-minute walks three times a day, if possible.

5. Take Them Out to the Bathroom More Often

As your dog ages, they will no longer be able to hold it for as long as they used to. One recommendation is to take them out in the morning, after a nap, and at night. You may also consider buying dog diapers to prevent accidents. If there are any pet accidents, remember Hernandez Carpet Cleaning is here to help Deep Clean and Pet Treat your Floors. Book an Appointment now.

6. Don't Leave Them Behind

Older dogs may not have the energy as before, but that doesn't mean they can't come with you. Try to include your dog in basic activities, such as going on a car ride with you for short errands, or bring them to a friend's house to nap with another senior dog, if possible. Including your pet in basic activities will help your senior dog not feel left out and get them out of the house.

7. Look for Signs of Discomfort

Limping, lying down when eating or drinking, difficulties changing positions are all signs of discomfort and are worth a vet visit. Schedule an appointment with your vet.

8. Groom, Groom, Groom

Help your dog with more bath sessions and brushing. Not only will this help them look and feel their best, but it also allows you to check for lumps and areas of irritation.

9. Rugs

Help your dog avoid falling by placing rugs and runners on slippery floors like hardwood and tile. You can also place rubber padding to stick the rug in place. Check out Hernandez Carpet Cleaning's Pet-Friendly Non-Slip Padding here.

10. All-Time Favorite Toy

Kong, the all-time favorite toy of pet owners, has a senior option that protects their teeth while chewing. Combine this with the Stuff'n Easy treat for a fun and easy activity for your senior dog to exercise their mind and receive a treat.

Remember

Your older dog can live up to 20 years. Treasure them and help them have the healthiest life possible with proper care and love. In the long run, Pet Insurance can be of great help to assist with the financial responsibilities of taking care of a senior dog.

Next Steps

If you need help cleaning up after your pet had accidents, Book Online a Deep Cleaning with a Pet Treatment or call us at 336-292-0331. We are open Monday-Friday from 9:00 am-5:00 pm. call us at 336-292-0331.

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