The other night my 15-year-old dog Teddy started pacing, a very unusual behavior for him. He simply could not get comfortable – he tried the couch, his kennel and his favorite place, under the bed. He would stay for a few minutes, then get back up and pace. He carried his tail between his legs, which is very unusual for him as Teddy is quite proud of his tail. However, he was eating, drinking and eliminating, all good signs.
He is on Metacam for his hips, thyroid medication, he has fatty lumps, his eyes are beginning to cloud up and his hearing is not what it used to be. He’s been on Nutri Source’s Senior Dog Food for quite a few years.
It’s hard for me to admit that Teddy, my 15-year-old perpetual-con-artist-puppy is a senior citizen and is aging.
With the excellent care our animals receive, they are living longer, meaning that we have more senior animals. Instead of simply being a dog that is kept outside, our pets are now valued family members.
Here are some pointers to keep in mind as your animal ages:
- A wellness check with your pet’s vet will find problems early on, allowing treatment to start before the problem becomes serious.
- Age appropriate exercise will help keep joints mobile and help your pet maintain a good frame of mind.
- Nutritional needs change as your pet ages. Check with your pet’s medical care practitioner for recommended diet.
- Dental care promotes good general health.
- Alternative practices such as acupuncture, healing touch and reiki can do a lot to keep you pet’s systems balanced.
If you have any tips about life with a senior pet and how to care for them, let us know! I will keep you posted on how Teddy fairs.
Harmony,
Janet Roper
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I couldn’t agree with you more on this, especially keeping them exercised. I’d also include keeping them comfortable at night while they “recharge” their batteries — I learned this the hard way with our last senior family member, a female Lhasa Apso. It made a world of difference when we bought her a comfy bed to use at night and buying two bean bags that we kept on each room we spent a lot of time during the day — office and living room. Also, if there are stairs in your house, help them by carrying them as it can hurt their sensitive joints. Thanks for a great post Janet and hope you have a great year!
Hi Janet, an excellent post. I have an aging Border Collie that it just makes my heart hurt every time I look at him and see the signs of aging. If there is a place we all go when we die I definitely want to go where my animals are, they have been the very best of friends.
Hi Janet,
I have found that with all senior animals (including people), it really keeps them engaged in life if you take a little extra time to let them know that they are still important to you. If they had/have a specific job to do in your family, help or let them do it. My old pony knew she was the barn ambassador. It was her job to greet people who came to visit and take special care with the kids. It made her feel important. Taking the time to thoroughly groom the older animal as frequently as daily helps them physically, emotionally, and mentally. Play is important to them because it makes life fun. For my older Siamese cat, I make sure that she has plenty of one on one time with me thoughout the day. Anything that gives them the gift of you keeps them going and happy with their lives.
Best of luck with Teddy!
Caren
Hi Caren,
Thanks for your comments, they are so true! No matter our age and our conditions, we are all valued creatures. Love what you said: “Anything that gives them the gift of you keeps them going and happy with their lives.” So be it!
Thanks for stopping by, look forward to seeing you here again!
Harmony,
Janet
Hi Tammy.
It’s easier to watch ourselves age than those we love, isn’t it? Yup, we will all be together again when we die. Won’t that be a fun reunion?
Thanks for stopping by!
Harmony,
Janet
Hi Karina,
Glad you enjoyed the post, and thank you for your pointers. Loved what you said about recharging their batteries. Yes, it’s so important to watch them on the steps. Sometimes Teddy needs help getting up the steps, and into the car.
I’m looking forward to talking with you again!
Harmony,
Janet
Hi bille,
Hope you are having a fantastic New Year. Actually that dog isn’t Teddy, but a stock photo. Teddy doesn’t look nearly as old as he is. Here’s a link to a picture of Teddy: http://talk2theanimals.net/animal-communication/dog-park-tails-13/ He looks and acts like a puppy, not a senior citizen!
Harmony,
Janet