Dogs age just like people.
And with age they become less agile, their hearing and activity decrease, and problems with joints and memory appear.
And it is very important for the owner to know how to help their pet meet a new stage in their life with care and comfort, says Diana Belyaeva .
The first thing you should always pay attention to is health. It gets worse with age. Check your dog's entire body in a timely manner. Notice the slightest changes in behavior. They may be the beginning of your pet's health deterioration.
Pain can cause discomfort in movement. Buy a soft bed, cover slippery surfaces, do not scold the dog if, for example, it does not come up right away. If you suspect pain in your pet, immediately contact a veterinarian. He will examine and, if necessary, prescribe supportive devices.
Monitor your dog's dental health. Choose a balanced diet for your dog: food or natural food, it doesn't matter. The main thing is that it suits your dog.
It is better to do this with the help of a veterinary nutritionist, taking into account the breed, age and individual characteristics of the pet. For dogs over 7 years old, nutrition plays an important role in maintaining health.
As dogs age, they may become unclean. Their memory declines. Therefore, for example, the pet may go to the toilet in the wrong place. Do not scold him, this will only make the situation worse.
Older dogs are not so active. Replace active games with calm ones: search games, buy a sniffing mat, you can read aloud to your pet.
Reduce the time of the walk. Observe more, stop if the dog is attracted to something, explore new places.
Older dogs often have problems with their paws. That's why many of them can no longer jump onto their favorite sofa. Special ladders for dogs are sold on marketplaces. They move close to the sofa, and the pet can easily climb.
Pay more attention, create comfort for your pet. Despite age, your pet still remains faithful and devoted, it deserves care throughout its "shaggy" life!