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Vet’s Corner

Caring for our Aging Companions

As our beloved companions enter the latter
stages of their life it is important to ensure they
remain as healthy as possible. The following lists
some important points that as owners we can
help to ensure our beloved pets grow old with
dignity:

• Vaccinate you dog regularly - their
immune system does wane as they age
so an up-to date immunity against
diseases such as Leptospirosis and
Kennel Cough is important.
• Ensure your pet is regularly dewormed (including lungworm in
those areas where it is prevalent) and has flea treatment regularly
applied.
• Groom your dog frequently to prevent their hair coat from matting
and check their nails regularly as excessive growth is a common
ageing process.
• Always ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water available and
ensure other pets do not prevent the more senior member of the
pack from obtaining adequate food and water.
• Moderate exercise levels in accordance with your dogs age - it
is some times better, especially in arthritic dogs, to walk your dog
for shorter periods but more frequently; avoiding long walks that
will put more strain on the joints and muscles. Swimming is also an
excellent form of exercise which has a low impact on arthritic
joints.
• When the weather is cold think about using coats and jackets for
older dogs when walking and ensure your pet has a snug, warm bed
for those damp days when their joints may ache.

• Weigh your dog regularly using the same scales and keep a
record - the first symptom of many diseases will be weight loss
and identifying this early will give your pet the best chance of
stopping the progression of such diseases.

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