The Elder Dog.

Is your dog getting up in years? If so, here are some things you can do to help ease the transition from young pup to senior citizen. First is to recognize the signs that your dog is aging. Note any physical or mental changes such as getting up slower, taking more naps, not socializing with the family or getting up and forgetting where they are going. Also, pacing at night, like an Alzheimer's patient. Dogs can get a disease that is called cognitive dysfunction syndrome or canine Alzheimer's.

Maintaining regular vet visits can help you with recognizing an signs of aging. Things you might not notice, you vet might. Older dogs are more likely to develop illnesses, injuries and other age related problems. Diabetes, renal failure and the main culprit, arthritis are the main ones. What I see, alot, are over-weight dogs. Just like humans, weight causes many health problems. So, back off the treats and definitely stop the table food. Regular exercise, such as walking or jogging, or just running after a toy for 10 minutes, 3 times a day, can greatly help your dog to live longer and be healthier. Don't over-exert your dog, though. If your dog slows down on your walk or just stop and sit down, adjust your exercise accordingly. Panting heavily or coughing during exercise could be signs of heart of health or lung problems.

Their are many good senior dog foods. Putting your dog on one of these foods will also help. Some of these foods contain glucosamine and chondroitin for joints. Heavier dogs need a lighter diet with fewer calories and fat. Just check with your vet about the diet. Also, a good teeth cleaning is a must. You can have your vet do it, or you can purchase a finger toothbrush and dental gel and do it yourself. Giving a crunchy bone, such as a milk bone, is helpful in cleaning the teeth. Just Dogs! Gourmet in the Huntington Mall, has a peppermint bone that is great for freshening the breath and cleaning the teeth. It also soothes an irritated stomach. Plus, they also carry a dental gel and toothbrushes and finger brushes, plus a fabulous variety of bones, both soft and crunchy. I am not a fan of the Greenies that are sold in various stores.

Many elder dogs have achy joints, just like us. Using a supplement to soothe these aches and pains is a good idea. Ask your vet what he/she recommends. Soft beds and blankets that are heated and a ramp to help them get up on the bed or in the car is a great idea. You can find the steps at Just Dogs! Gourmet, too. Also, believe it or not, room temperature plays a big part on your dogs achy joints. There are also some new things out to help your elder dog. Acupuncture, hydrotherapy(water massage) and massage. Again, talk with your vet.

Has your dog lost some of his/her vision or hearing. You can accommodate for that. Approach your dog loudly and keep the yard well lit at night along with your house. You can also install cues for your dog, like a fragrance or noise in the house, things like that. And, maintaining a calm home is a must. Just like elder people, noise and change are disturbing to them. Keep it calm and as quiet as possible. Last, but definitely not least, make their last years fulfilling. Feeling useful is so important, not only for humans but animals as well. It keeps the mind occupied and busy. This will help so much. I found a term in a magazine calling them "geriatric gems." I love that.