Caring for Your Aging Dog

Aging affects everyone, and that is just as true for your dog as for anyone else. Many dog owners (especially new ones) do not think to plan for what happens as the dog ages. Here are just a few of the things all pet owners should take into consideration and plan for.

Arthritis and other painful physical conditions. If your dog is accustomed to going down steps in order to use the bathroom in the yard, he or she will have a difficult time doing so if he develops arthritis. If you find this is happening to your pet, consider installing a handicap ramp, just as you would for any other member of the family. This will make your dog's trip to the yard much more comfortable and will lessen the likelihood that he will fall down the steps.

Incontinence and accidents. Aging dogs and people often find it difficult to control their bladders as they age due to incontinence. Because this condition is called by a weakening bladder, which makes it difficult or even impossible for the sufferer to hold his water, it is vitally important that you don't punish or shame your pet for accidents. He truly can't help it. Consider doggie diapers, a pad that you change often or simply accepting that there will now be more clean-up now that your dog is elderly. Whatever you do, however, don't kick a house dog out of the house or confine her in a space away from the family. This can be absolutely devastating.

Changes in personality. Yes, dogs can go senile, suffer from dementia or have strokes. Your pet may begin barking for no reason or may show signs of fear if someone approaches. If your dog begins snapping or biting, take the safety of the rest of the family, and remove the dog from contact if necessary. However, whatever symptoms your dog is exhibiting must be discussed with his veterinarian. There may be a simple explanation, such as snapping because he now has arthritis and was touched too roughly. In this case you may have to confine the dog until you determine the cause.

One of the most important things to do when caring for an aging pet is to watch for signs of physical problems so that conditions may be stopped before they do real damage, or so that chronic pain may be dealt with through monitoring and medication. It is, however, also very important to make sure that your pet still feels like a loved member of the family. This may mean making concessions such as cleaning up after accidents or not purchasing that brand-new white carpet until the pet is no longer with you. Your dog has given you a lifetime of unconditional love. Caring for him in his old age is a great way to return the favor.