Have been a clinical veterinarian for over 16 years, and more and more dogs are getting older, and many owners often ask me if there is anything else I can do for their older dogs? With such a question, I have thought about it for a long time, and I hope some of the following methods can help you.

With the rapid development of pets diagnosis and treatment in China, our veterinary diagnosis and treatment technology has improved a lot compared to the past, and nutrition knowledge is not the same. , we have the ability to help pet owners, so that your dogs live longer and better quality of life. The following methods for responsible pet owners can help their dogs live a higher quality of life.

The first step is to take a regular check-up to the veterinarian

If you love your pets, the best way is to detect potential diseases in them at an early stage, we strongly recommend that you Take them to the pet hospital every six months for a comprehensive physical assessment to check their cardiopulmonary function, vision and body temperature. The animal hospital will carry out blood routine, urinalysis, biochemical and blood pressure examinations for elderly animals.

Step 2 Food changes for the elderly

With age, their metabolic levels of fat and protein also changed. Of course, many chronic diseases also need to be considered, such as kidney disease or diabetes, which require the use of special prescription foods under the guidance of a veterinarian. Many brands of grains have been produced specifically for older animals and are more nutrient-dense, such as more omega 3 for skin health benefits and more glucosamine for arthritis. Listen to your veterinarian's advice for your pet!

The third step to prevent obesity

Most animals gain weight with age, mainly because of older animals The basal metabolic rate slows down, and the time to exercise will also be reduced. Excessive obesity can easily lead to diabetes, hypothyroidism and arthritis. So in order to avoid these problems, you need to adjust their diet to the actual situation of the animals. Feed the amount mainly to meet the daily calorie needs, and limit the intake of snacks, so that it is easy to control their weight. Encouraging them to exercise more is also a positive approach. Daily exercise, toys, or spa treatments are all great ways to exercise your older dog.

The fourth step should not change the temperature too much

Old animals are very sensitive to changes in temperature. In summer, in order to avoid heat stroke, it is best to spend more time indoors; in winter, avoid playing with a small amount of sub-zero temperature, and low temperature may also cause frostbite. It is very necessary to add some comfortable blankets or cushions to the area where they live. Wear boots that protect their feet when going out in winter, especially in very cold places.

Step 5 to reduce stress

As pets get older, their vision and hearing will decline, much worse than when they were young. Try to keep them in a quiet location in the room to avoid accidental collisions. If your pet used to go to bed but now needs a ladder for them to move around.