Caring for the Older Dog If your dog develops trouble with hearing, vision, housetraining, or mobility, youll need to make some adjustments to his environment. This might include: Walks instead of jogs; tug games instead of chase games. Ramps so your pup can still get into the car or up on the bed or favorite chair. More frequent potty trips outside; reintroduction to his crate if he was crate trained initially. Adequate social interaction with other pets and people, but take care not to over stimulate your dog – short periods of exercise and playtime in controlled situations are best for older dogs. If your dog has problems hearing or seeing, use odor cues like scented candles or other aromatherapy products to help him find his way around. If your dog isnt sleeping well, increasing his daytime activity level can help. Let your pup sleep in your bedroom. Sleeping near his human pack leader should help ease any anxiety that is contributing to his nighttime restlessness. Guide your dog with clear cues and easy-to-follow instructions, especially if hes showing signs of mental decline. When you talk to your dog, keep your voice quiet, calm, and kind – and please dont ever shout at him. Older dogs can become easily stressed and quite depressed. Using hand signals and eye contact will help you communicate with your hard-of-hearing pet. Your dog can be easily trained, if he isnt already, to recognize hand signals for Come and Wait (but be very cautious when letting a dog thats hard of hearing or losing his eyesight outdoors) Avoid moving furniture around, keep household travel lanes clear, and minimize clutter if your dog is losing his vision Dogs with age-related incontinence can be fitted with dog bloomers or panties with absorbent pads -- you can even use human disposable diapers and cut a hole for the tail. Keep in mind urine is caustic and should not remain on your pets skin for long periods, so if you use diapers, be sure to change them frequently or remove them during times when your pet isnt apt to be incontinent. If your pet is incontinent primarily during sleep, there are pet incontinence beds that work by pulling moisture away from the animal and down into a tray. There are many natural treatments and supplements that can help older pets feel comfortable and stay mobile. Some of these include chiropractic adjustments, stretching, water exercises, acupuncture, and massage.
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 20:18:30 +0000
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