CARE OF OLD DOG

The meaning of "old" can vary according to the breed, but it usually starts around 10 years of age. As a dog gets older, its behaviour changes too. The signs of aging in a dog are very much similar to those of humans e.g. old dogs have reduced energy levels, they sleep longer, have less enthusiasm for energetic activities. Older dogs also have changes in fur and skin. Fur becomes matted quite often; it takes longer for wounds to heal. The old dogs generally become more sensitive to extremes in temperature. Moreover, older dogs experience changes in vision and hearing, making it tough sometimes to roam around the house. An old dog normally does suffer loss in energy and

care mobility. Give him more time to sleep, and more time to wake up in the morning. The long walks may not be so long anymore. Make it easier for him to reach his food, and provide comfortable resting places. Keep an eye out for symptoms of the older dog diseases, such as cancer and diabetes that your pet can be more susceptible to. Your dog will live longer and provide you with more years of loving companionship.