Caring for Senior Dogs

Every day, our dogs accompany us, and the aging process can be subtle. It's only when we leave them for an extended period that we suddenly realize how much they have aged.

My dog, A-Fu, has graying fur, less bright eyes, and shows signs of slow movement and muscle loss in his limbs. These are clear signs of his aging. Although A-Fu spends most of his day sleeping, he still eagerly looks forward to going for walks with me. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining joint mobility and muscle health.

During the summer, I take A-Fu for walks in the park at night when the temperatures are cooler. In winter, I try to take him out during the day because the streetlights near our home are dim in the evening. When A-Fu walks at night, he squints a bit, and his steps seem heavier.

His ability to judge the distance of oncoming cars has also diminished, and his hearing is not as sharp as it used to be. Sometimes, when I give A-Fu commands, he easily overlooks them.

One of the most common discomforts for older dogs and cats is dental issues. Plaque accumulates on their teeth over time, causing the gums to recede and expose the roots. This can quickly lead to infections, and the teeth may become loose and painful. Poor dental health can significantly affect an animal's overall well-being, so it’s important to have a veterinarian check their teeth regularly and remove plaque when necessary.

Like humans, heart disease is common in older dogs. Obesity and lack of exercise make dogs more susceptible to myocardial and vascular changes. While heart disease is not as common in cats, aging animals are more likely to show signs of degeneration in their kidneys. Another factor is that cats have a high demand for protein due to their concentrated protein diets compared to other species.

The diet of senior dogs needs to be adjusted gradually. The efficiency of intestinal muscles and cell walls decreases, making it difficult for them to handle large amounts of food. It’s best to feed them twice a day and avoid giving large bones, especially cooked bones, as they can cause constipation. If your pet does not consume milk, you can add fat-soluble vitamin supplements, such as cod liver oil.

Senior dogs, like humans, become very dependent on their families and surroundings. As their vision declines, they can still lead normal lives as long as they are not suddenly placed in unfamiliar environments.

With heartfelt companionship, mutual care, and protection of our family. ❤