If you have an older dog, you most likely want to give him the best possible quality of life and ensure he’ll live his sunset years to the fullest. But how exactly can you achieve these goals? Well, there are many things you can do, but one of the simplest and most important steps is to learn how to properly take care of him. A senior pet has different needs than a puppy so, to keep him healthy and happy, you must know what his specific needs are and how you can address them. Here are a few tips that can help you get started:
Bring him to the vet for regular checkups
You’ve probably already heard of this advice but, if you aren’t heeding it, it’s time to give your veterinarian a call and book an appointment. Vets will usually advise you to bring your older dog over every six or twelve months, unless he has an illness that requires him to have more frequent visits. By sticking to a regular checkup schedule, you’ll help your pet avoid health problems and stay in good shape. You’ll also make it possible for your vet to spot any early signs and symptoms of illnesses that usually affect senior dogs (such as arthritis and dental diseases) and consequently provide your pooch with the right treatment ASAP.
Make any necessary changes to his diet
Many people give older pets the same kind of food for years (or even decades!). Don’t make the same mistake; remember that, just like humans, your dog’s dietary needs change over time. So, if you want to keep him fit and healthy, you need to give him food that are designed with his nutritional requirements in mind and can provide him with the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients his body needs.
There are lots of products in the market nowadays, but one of your best options is Fish4Dogs. They offer a range of premium dog food that contain fish and are packed with high amounts of essential nutrients. Fish might not be the first thing that comes into your mind when feeding your dog, but it’s actually a great choice since its proteins are easily digested. These, in turn, are highly helpful for ageing pets with slower digestive systems or who have developed sensitive stomachs. Fish also contains high amounts of Omega 3 fatty acids, which help in reducing inflammation and keeping stiff and painful joints at bay.
Find ways to make him more comfortable
Older pets can suffer from hair loss, balance problems and eyesight and hearing difficulties (among others), all of which can make it difficult for him to be comfortable going through his daily activities. Fortunately, you can take several steps to minimise the signs of ageing and give your dog a good quality of life. If he has developed arthritis, for instance, you can line his bed with soft towels or blankets so he can sleep in comfort. You can also install ramps (so he can go up and down staircases with ease) and lay rugs or carpets on the floor (so he’ll find it easier to walk around the house).
Keep these tips in mind and use them to make your senior dog happy and healthy!
