Author: Dorothy

More on the Caring and Feeding of Your Senior Dog

Not every Older Dog is Fat!

A reduced calorie senior dog food is obviously not a good choice for a pet that is either at a good weight or is too thin.

As the case with people, your dogs diet should meet his individual nutritional requirments, which may or may not be similar to other dosgs his age. Your dogs body condition and any underlying diseases are more important considerations than his age.

Protein Requirments Do Not Decrease as Your Dog Ages:

In fact, studies point to an increased need for protein. Low protein will compromise kidney and liver function.  The type of protein most dogs

thrive on is whole, unprocessed and often raw.

Added Fiber is not Biologically Appropiate for Dogs

While it is true senior dogs have problems with consitpation, the fiber added to commercial pet foods isn’t the answer

A senior formula with increased fiber will cause your little guy to poop more, but it will block absorption of healthy nutrients. Too much fiber can creat a barrier in your dog’s small intenstine which prevent antioxidants, vitamins and minerals from being assimilated.

When it Comes to Senior Dog Foods Buyers Beware

Dog food formulas marketed for senior aren’t  based on much science or even a solid set of guidelines outlining the general nutritional requirmements.

Please see your vet and discuss your old guys nutrtional needs and dietary requirements

 

 

 

Why Does My Senior Dog Eat Grass?

Biologist have told us that canids-dogs, wild dogs, wolves , etc, All, eat grass, as a normal part of its diet. So its important to recognize that

attempting to prevent  your little guy from eating grass is not necessary, unless your lawn has been treated  with insecticides, or some kind of chemical.

if it has not been treated, let him eat away!

It is widely believed that your dog is seeking out grasses which   contains some nutritional value. We  know that grass contains an abundant source

 source of fiber or rougage, It is high in fiber. Grass is a living  green food which contains phytonutrients and is high in potassium and chlorophyll.

Grasses are also a pretty good source of digestive enzymes. Sometimes they eat grass becuase they are bored.

The most noticeable item with grass eating is the vomiting, associated with it.  It is completly normal for this to occur.

You might want to look at switching your dogs food, flavors and switching protein sources.

In addition, you might want to look at a holistic  vet, who can assit in chaging  your dogs diet.  You should make this change gradually.

The other items that you should consider adding to your dogs food are probiotics and digestive enzymes.

Another reason we must look at , is this.  Chico, and your dog as well. might just like the taste! can you imagine?

Often, I have had to pick blades of grass from Chico’s nose to stop the incessant sneezing. During the summer, he goes right to it. During the winter, he goes through the snow to get to it. I make no attempt to stop him from thsi behaviour.  Once  every two weeks or so, he throws up and away we go!!

As I always note , We are having sixth month wellness exams for our sentiors, so we are ahead of any problems!!!

LONG LIVE SENIOR DOGS!!!

 

 

If this is occuring more frequently, you might want to look into  a wholisitc vet who  cn help in swiching to  a more balanced diet for your  little guy.

I can’t tell you the number of times, I have had to pry blades of grass out of Chico;s throat ajd nose. i am quite the expert  with this now. i can’t stand to see him uncomfortable, so i will do what is necessary to get hin there, just as i know most pet owners will do.

What Your Breeds Says About YOU!

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are determined, persistent, and do not give up easily. People who own bull dogs are said to be silly and love to laugh, but can be viewed as stubborn at times. They are extremely efficient and methodical in completing jobs. Bull dogs are gentle. Owners tend to be hopeless romantics with sentimental streaks.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are sweet, respectful and gentle. Owners of this breed are charming, trustworthy and affectionate. Cocker spaniels are said to lead busy lives, but put family first.They maintain a group of close friends, which they prefer to meeting strangers.

Sight Hound Group

Owners of these breeds tend to be more relaxed, calm and introverted. Sight hounds enjoy the company of close friends and prefer outings with small groups. They are highly organized, curious and always alert. People who own sight hounds are fast and agile and often excel in sports, especially track and field.

Rottweilers

Rotweilers are determined and are often described as intense. This breeds commands a a certain amount of respect. Rottweilers person tends to be confident, loyal and devoted to their friends and loved ones. They are laid back and quick to react if smeone rubs them the wrong way.

Pugs

Pugs are often viewed as the class clown. People who live with pugs are cheerful and have a zest for living life to the fullest. Pugs owners enjoy a day at the spa and a massage often.

Labradors and Golden Retrievers

Labs and golden retrievers are friendly, good natured and make wonderful family pets. Owners of these breeds put family firt and said to be easy going and carefree. Labs and goldens should have active lifestyles and love the outdoors. Ths can be said of owners of these guys at well. These breeds are social butterflies who are honest and lovable.

Great Danes

Owners of this breed are good-hearted and responsible. They tend to work hard and put one hundred percent into whatever they do. Great Dane owners stay up on news , and current events. They welcome a good debate.

For additional breeds go to www.seniordog playbook/facebook

Pit Bulls

Pit Bulls have a strong desire to please and will do anything for thier family and friends. Pit bulls owners are courageous, full of vitality and are constanly looking out for those they love. They enjoy being around children. There is no better baby sitter.

Bichon Frises

People who won BIchon Frises enjoy being pampered and are considerate of their appearance. They are naturally sociable and happiest when they are part of a family or friends.

 

Excercise and Older Pets

All of a sudden one day you notice the shining white (grey)creeping into your dogs muzzle . He sleeps  a little more carefully now but most time seems to be just as energetic. What is wrong-nothing. He is just aging. Happens to us all.

If you have not already, now is the time to begin a regular program of excercise.

Inside your aging pet:metabolism is slowing, organ function is slowing, and the response to disease has diminished.  In addition, your senior will probably urinate more often.

Excercise stimulates tissue as it increases blood flow. Tissues become  oxginated  abd toxins are removved from them more readily. In additon, excercise helps bowel function. This is especiallyt true in older pers.

Without  adequate use, muscles weaken and atrophy. This becomes a vicious cycle.  As excercise decreases the , the muscles weaken  and the less they can do. 

Making sure your senior gets enough excercise may seem like a difficult task, but try one or more of the following tips:

  • If you choose outside excercise, make surfe that the weatheris suitable for the type of excercise you are doing. Dogs can suffer heatstroke and frostbite. You must be especially careful with seniors.
  • Walking is excellent. Start with 10-15 minutes a day and slowly increase to 1-2 hours a week
  • Spend more interactive playtime with your older pet. More walks, more games of feteh, tug of war., hide and seek
  • Good nutrition is more important than ever in aging pets. This is especially true with excercise.
  • Give your pet vitamin and mineral supplement-A  good one is important for seniors

What Causes Pet Cancer?

Enviormental and Food Toxins

Do a screening of your household. Exposure to chemicals in the enviorment  and even small doses of chemical additives and preservatives can build up and be carcinogenic.  Look around your house and get rid of any toxins. You can read labels and it will tell you , if harmful to children or pets.

Genetics

Due to improper breeding practices  certain breeds of dogs are genetically prone to canine cancer. These breeds are:

Golden Retrievers

Laborador Retrievers

Rottweilers

Bermese Mountain Dogs

Boxers

When choosing a pet, question the breeder as to the incidence of cancer in the line. Also, ALWAYS AVOID puppy mills!!!!

Over Vaccinations

This can weaken, not strengthen your pets immune system.  As our pet ages, so do the vaccines required.  Have this discussion with your vet to have a plan to vaccinate. This should not occur automatically every year.  Only vaccinate for the diseases that are prevalent in your area.

With our seniors, we are ahead of any issues, right??

We want to keep these guys around as long as we can, with a good quality of life.

 

LONG LIVE THE SENIOR DOG!!!

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Cancer in Older Dogs

Dogs can get cancer at roughly the same age as humans. Some cancers are preventable by spaying and neutering, others are not.

A diagnosis of cancer may be based on x-rays, blood tests, physical appearance of lumps and other physical signs. The ultimate test is thorugh a biopsy.
Top Ten Common Signs of Cancer in Your Senior to look for:
1) Abnormal Swelling that persists or continues to grow
2) Sores that do not heal
3) Weight Loss
4) Loss of Appetite
5) Bleeding or Discharge from any body opening
6) Offensive Mouth Odor
7) Difficulty eating or swallowing
8) Hesistation to escercise/loss ofstamina
9) Persistent lameness/stiffness
10) Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

Obviously if any of these symtons present-get your guy to the vet.
We , who have seniors have been keeping up with wellness exams, and are ahead of as much as possible

1)More than half of dogs over ten will develop cancer.  This tumor can affect any breed, at any age.

2) Peripheral Lymphoma

The  most common sign is enlargement  of the peripheral lymph nodes, particularly under the jaw, in front of the shoulders and behind the knees,  This is a difficult to detect, unless dog shows  decreased appetite or lethargy.

3) Inernal Lymphoma

This form affects the inernal lymph nodes, such as the lover or spleen. Signs of internal lymphoma are often severe , consisting of vomiting,diarrhea, abdominal  pain, difficulty breathing. Left untreated, these can become fatal.

Hemangiosarcoma

This is a tumor  that develops from cells that line blood vessels. This tumor affects  middle-aged  or older dogs of any breed.  This sarcoma develops over time and is not painful.  Signs do not show until late in the disease when the dog  suffers from internal bleeding  from the tumor rupturing.  The organ most frequently affected  is the spleen.   Most dogs do not survive long after diagnosis.

Finally:

Osteosarcoma

This form primarily affects the long bones (front and rear limbs), but can affect any bones including the skull or ribs. This sarcoma is aggressive and rapidly spreading tumor. Usually treatment requires removal of affected limb with the hopes to stop the spreading of the disease.

 

Things You Should Do For Your Senior Dog

1) See your vet more often, not less. Partner with your vet to ensure that your pets quality of life is comfortable, and at its best

Vaccine requirements change  as  your dog ages. Make sure to have a plan with your vet. Ask your vet about hospice care, when you are at that point. Not something to look forward to, but it is all about loving and caring for your senior through end of life.

2) Change can be hard for dogs at this age. The more you keep the routine the same , the better. Consider keeping your pal in the home, as much as possible, as opposed to kennels, when you must leave. This will minimize the stress  and anxiety of your leaving.

3) Create runways, instead of hardwood floors, whenever possible.  I have noticed that Chico, walks only on the rugs when traversing his space. Dogs are incredibly  intelligent!!

4) Diminished hearing and site will cause some irritability. Everyone in the household needs to be aware of mood swings in the senior.

5)  Maintain digestive regulatory.  Arthritis can cause pooping to be painful. Adding high fiber into the diet, such as pumpkin, low sugar helps to keep things moving and ease pain.

6)  Pain Management-make sure your guy is pain free as much as possible. They will not always tell you that there is pain, but you will know. Work with your vet to administer these med’s.

7)   Go for a walk, keep it moving.  Small games of tug of war. Just keep moving!

8)  I can not   emphasize enough, the importance of weight control. Remember, just like people, as they age, metabolism has diminished. cut back on the food and treats.

9)  Keep a close eye on lumps that could be potentially cancerous. Examine your dog daily, to keep track of any changes, bigger, lumpier, doesn’t move, when you touch.,

10)  Pay attention to oral health. Bad teeth , and gums could cause so many other issues.

 

The Best Dog Beds for Seniors

Senior Dogs sleep A lot. The worst thing you can do , is have an uncomfortable bed.  Choosing the right bed needs consideration for some issues that are unique to the “senior” dog.

Good padding and support will give support and comfort to old bones. As dogs age, they loose muscle mass leaving exposed bony prominence’s.  This causes painful pressure points in the hips, shoulders, elbows and knees. A GOOD orthopedic bed will prevent these painful pressure points!
There is only one material that completely eliminates all painful pressure points and that material is, memory foam. Make sure you ask what grade/quality memory foam is being used in your orthopedic dog bed, as there are three qualities or grades of memory foam:
“5 pound” memory foam is the highest quality (can be expensive) It gives the best support and lasts for years.
“4 pound” memory foam is what humans have on their beds
Lastly “3 pound” memory foam is the lowest quality-known to loose  its memory over time. Sadly, many orthopedic memory foam dog beds use the cheaper “3 pounds”
 
The only disadvantage of a memory foam bed is, it is not waterproof. As our seniors become more advanced in age, incontinence is a real possibility, over time, the bed will have to be discarded. 
In the meantime, make sure the material on the bed is waterproof and resists moisture.
 Make sure you are getting what you pay for. Remember there are three things  to look for in any company when purchasing a bed, high quality products , products that will last and stand the test of time, AND superior customer service.
 Types of Beds:
The Pillow Bed
The pillow bed is the most common bed available. Available in many shapes, sizes and colors. These may be the best dog beds for canines that like to stretch out. they often come with outer liners that can be removed for easy cleaning are often packed with Poly-fill, chipped foam or a cedar chip mixture.
The Bolster Bed
Often called  ‘cuddler bed” this bed can be perfect for dogs that like to curl up on the couch. These beds typically offer a full or partial wall for dogs to rest their heads on. These beds have removable cushions that can be easily cleaned. 
The Orthopedic Bed
Perfect beds for large dogs, as well as older dogs prone to joint  and hip disorders, the orthopedic bed contains a deep cushion foam that alleviate pressure points, allowing for a more comfortable fit. it insulates well in cold weather and it can help disperse body heat in the summer.
The Heated Bed
Heated beds can be the best bed for a dog that has arthritis, or joint problems. the heat can assist with sore and stiff muscles. thin coated dogs also benefit  the heated beds.
If you travel with pooch, make sure to have mats and pads which contain poly foam and covered with washable nylon fabric.

Seniors with Arthritis

Arthritis, Arthritis-the dreaded stiffness in joints that seniors experience as they age.I certainly have noticed that getting up in the morning is a delicate, slow,  maneuver .

What is arthritis and can it be prevented? Arthritis,or inflammation of the joints is a common problem, especially with large breeds, like the pointer. Arthritis can result in injury, infection, immune disorder, or simply wear and tear over the years.  Arthritis occurs when the cartilage  that cushions the ends of  bones break down over time. With arthritis, the cartilage gets rough and wears away, exposing the sensitive bone underneath.  Pain, inflammation and stiffness result. Arthritis can happen in any joint in the dog’s body. It is a  progressive disease , in that it gets worse over time.

There are many causes of arthritis in dogs: The most common is DJD  (Degenerative Joint Disease).  Large breeds put more stress by virtue of size .  Other causes

  • Injury . Injured joints may become chronically unstable, causing wear and tear to cartilage and other joint structures
  • Congenital joint problems, hip dysplasia, luxating patella. This is when joints develop abnormally.
  • Infection (Lyme Diseases,septic arthritis) Most often in human not in dogs, however there have been occurrences of this disease in dogs. This occurs when the animals own immune system attacks the joints, leading to arthritis

Symptoms

The symptoms of arthritis depend on the dogs age.  A typical sign is a stiff or altered gait as the dog avoids bearing down on the affected limb.  A dog with shoulder trouble will no longer  be able to jump into the car.  Symtpons are often worse  when a dog gets up from rest.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will complete an exam, X rays will confirm the disease,. CT scans and MRI’s are the standards for diagnosing joint problems .

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause. Infections and inflammatory joint disease are treated with medication.Surgery  can be indicated for joint injury . The majority of  cases, treatment is first aimed at alleviating pain and slowing the progression of the disease.

Life Style Changes are Crucial for the Senior to alleviate pain

1. Weight Management

Keeping your dog slim decreases the strain on damaged joint

2. Keep your dog moving

Regular leash walks on  soft surfaces improve arthritis , strengthens the muscles that support the joints. Swimming and treadmills are beneficial as well.

Make Life easier

1) Use Ramp when getting in and out of cars

2) Use Elevated feeders

3) Orthopedic beds are soft on the joints

4) Manage Pain-Check with vet to determine which medication is right for you

Other Remedies

1) Acupuncture

2) Hydrotherapy

3) Swimming

There is no cure for arthritis,but you can provide your senior with a good , happy quality of life .

Long Live Seniors!!

Alternative Treatments

Acupuncture

Hydrotherapy

Pet Masseuse

Laser Treatment

>>>>> More to Follow

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior Dogs and Excercise

Normally as a dog gets older. their exercise capability and needs change.

Make sure , to see a veterinarian for a wellness exam before beginning any new exercise.  If you have had your little guy for several years, stick to your regular exercise program . I am a big proponent of letting  him tell you when to stop. Believe me, they will tell you!

It is important for a senior to exercise  for the following reasons:

1) Exercise helps senior dogs keep a healthy body weight. Excess weight in senior dogs may bring about several health issues, put extra stress on the heart . I can’t tell you what havoc this wrecks in a dogs body-human as well. This weight can affect the brain, lungs, liver and kidneys.

2) Exercise helps delay the manifestation of osteoarthritis in seniors,this is the degeneration of the joints. This causes seniors pain and  discomfort.  You will notice that it gets harder and harder for them to stand after lying for a while.

3) Exercise helps maintain mental health in senior dogs. When seniors exercise , the levels of oxygen and nutrients like glucose will

remain optimum in the brain. The brain just as any other organ in the body, needs good nutrition to function at its best.

Senior dogs require a lot of attention  and care, and you must know exactly what will benefit them, or what will harm them.

My mission is to bring to senior dog lovers the latest and most informative ways we can stay ahead of any problem, and keep these guys as healthy and happy as possible.

I will provide “‘coaching” and expertise to owners who love seniors the way that I do. In the end, we want to provide the best care possible.

Go to my Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/seniordogplaybook.com,or comment on this site and share some of the challenges you face with your senior. As you share your concerns , and ideas on exercising we can find solutions that will enable our “pals” to live longer healthier lives.

Coaching through the senior dog experience. Long Live Senior Dogs!!

Coach Dot

Follow seniordogplaybook.com on Face Book.

 

 

 

 

Best Food for your Senior Dog

I am constantly looking for food that I can feed Chico,, as well as your senior,  and most importantly, food that they will eat.  Not so easy, I know.

The following is what I have found by trail and error, in addition to checking with my vet for the go ahead:

Yogurt is a source of probiotics (beneficial bacteria that can help with digestive system)

Eggs provides protein that is missing from most “senior” dog foods

Liver is packed with vitamins and trace minerals. Feed small amounts regularly. Too much will cause the stools to be loose.

Fish provides omega-3 fatty acids that support the immune system, reduce inflammation and contribute to the skin and coat. Canned fish is best, such as sardines, jack mackerel and pink salmon (rinse to reduce the sodium content)

Broccoli cabbage, cauliflower and brussel sprouts. Good luck finding ways to disguise these vegetables.  Chico does not like any of them, as your guy won’t either. You have to be creative to fool a seasoned senior dog, to eat these vegetables, and I am. After all, we are  smarter than they are , right??

Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene. They are a good source of vitamin C. They should be cooked!

Berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries help to prevent cancer. Berries also provide fiber.

Chicken, dark meat provides more nutrition than low fat chicken breast. Remove skin and small bones.  Chico has no problem eating drumsticks. Give him the whole thing-skin off, and small bone removed.

Beef. Red meat provides iron, zinc and other nutrients. Beef and Lamb supplies a variety of fatty acids. Cook beef and drain some of the fat.

Oatmeal and other whole grains provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, as well as fiber that can help with digestive issues.

Make these items for the week, and it won’t seem so overwhelming to do each day.

My goal of course is to keep this guy around for as long as possible. Small sacrifice, right? I know you feel the same about your senior.

Please click on the icon of facebook and send me your senior dog suggestions, and like the page .

LONG LIVE SENIOR DOGS!!!!

 

 

What to feed elderly dogs for optimum health

There’s definitely reason to panic if your older buddy suddenly stops eating the food he used to love. But relax: these changes are normal in ageing dogs. You will also have to make changes regarding what to feed elderly dogs.

But first, how do you know when a dog is considered old? For small breeds that weigh less than 20 pounds, 7 years is the mark to consider them old. The same goes for medium breeds that are 21 to 50 pounds. Larger dogs that are between 51 to 90 pounds get old at around 6 years old. Giant breeds 91 pounds or more will get old by the time they reach 5 years old.

When your dog gets old, it’s time to change their diet in order to keep them healthy and prevent any chronic illnesses from striking them. Some health issues that you want to prevent are deterioration of their skin and coat, loss of muscle mass, obesity, dental problems, and CDS to name a few.

What to feed elderly dogs for optimum health

Older dogs have been shown to progressively put on body fat in spite of consuming fewer calories. This change in body composition is inevitable and may be aggravated by either reduced energy expenditure or a change in metabolic rate. Either way, it is important to feed a diet with a lower caloric density to avoid weight gain, but with a normal protein level to help maintain muscle mass.

Avoid “senior” diets that have reduced levels of protein. Studies have shown that the protein requirement for older dogs does not decrease with age, and that protein levels do not contribute to the development or progression of renal failure. It is important to feed older dogs diets that contain optimum levels of highly digestible protein to help maintain good muscle mass.

Talk to your veterinarian about increasing your senior dogs GLA intake. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid that plays a role in the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. Although it is normally produced in a dog’s liver, GLA levels may be diminished in older dogs. Does your older dog’s diet contain GLA?  (Read more here.)

At your dog’s old age, you might also want to turn to antioxidants, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, as these can eliminate radical particles that damage your body’s tissues and even speed up the effects of aging.

At this point, you will need to have routine care for your senior pet. It might be a bit costly, but it’s important if you want to prevent skyrocketing costs when you find out that your pet has a chronic illness.