Due to improved veterinary care and dietary habits, pets are living longer now than they ever have before. One consequence of this is that pets along with their owners and veterinarians, are faced with a whole new set of age-related conditions. In recent years there has been extensive research on the problems facing older pets can best handle their special needs.
What kinds of health problems can affect older pets?
- Cancer
- Heart Disease
- Kidney/urinary tract disease
- Liver Disease
- Diabetes
- Joint or Bone disease
- Senility
- Arthritis/Weakness
Sound familiar? These are most of the diseases tha plague humans.
Possible Behavior Changes in Older Pets
- Increased reaction to sounds
- Increased vocalization
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Decreased interaction w/humans
- Increased irritability
- Decreased response to commands
- Increased aggressive/protective behaviour
- Increased anxiety
- House soiling
- Repetitive activity
- Increased wandering
- Changes in sleep cycles
The above reasons are usually why owners will turn their pets into shelters. I am always amazed that this pet , who has given so many years of love, is now a burden to some parents. I am however happy that pet owners who can no longer give them the care they need , take them to shelters .
“Dont forsake me when I am old.” This is a bible verse, which I think applies to the senior dog parent. Chico is fifteen years old. I cannot imagine my life without him!!! Long Live Senior Dogs!!!