CARE OF SENIOR DOG

Veterinary care for older dogs:-


The healthier we can keep a dog when he is young, the more likely he will be healthy as he grows older. His vaccinations, deworming, nutrition, dental care and parasite control will have a direct effect on his current health.



1. Physical examination – Older dogs should be checked thoroughly and regularly at least twice a year. You must tell your veterinarian about any conditions you have observed and evaluated. You can ask your veterinarian during an examination if you have any queries.



Physical examination should include following:-



a. Oral and dental examination – It should include an examination of mouth, teeth, gums, tongue and throat.



b. Ophthalmic exam – Routine procedure may include eye examination for any initial signs of cataracts, glaucoma or dry eye.



c. Rectal exam – It is an important part of a physical examination for a dog. Vet will examine the inner pelvic area, lymph nodes, prostate gland and urinary system parts.



d. Hair and coat – Your vet will check for the skin, coat and hair condition.



e. Parasites – it should include an examination of the skin and ears for any sign of external parasites. A fecal examination should be done to find out any internal parasite, if present.



f. Vaccinations – It is important to keep your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations as the older dogs have less immunity towards infectious diseases.



g. Blood test – The blood should be tested for hemogram, liver function test, kidney function test, etc.



h. Blood Bio-chemistry – These tests will include the evaluation of various chemicals, enzymes, proteins, hormones and different electrolytes.



i. Radiographs – the chest and abdomen radiographs are useful to find out any signs of disease.



j. Diagnostic tests – Different diagnostic tests like endoscopy, ultrasound and electro surgery can be used to diagnose any heath problem.

k. Pain management – Pain killers can be used in older dogs to make them comfortable.

GUINEA PIG - BATHING

Guinea pigs don't need bath in routine until they are soiled or you want to take them for show purpose. It is stressful for them but if you are good with bathing them, they will not have much troubles. You can use baby shampoo or mild kitten shampoo or soaps with aloe vera and neem based. Guinea pigs need frequent bath when they are infested with ectoparasites.
After bathing they should be towel dried properly and care should be taken that water does not enter their eyes and ears. They should be kept at dry and warm place for proper drying.

GUINEA PIG FEEDING

Guinea Pigs make fantastic pets for children. Also known as a “Cavy” and they are social and very affectionate. Apart from a regular checkup with your local vet to catch any potential illness ahead of time, there is no reason for a Guinea Pig to be any more trouble than a cat or a dog.


Parasites can become a problem, but generally aside from lice and mites not many other bugs affect the furry little creatures. Caring for your guinea pig should be a loving activity. As they like to sleep in and under straw, hay, and other soft surroundings, new bedding can be a problem with mites and lice. Lice can be seen in some cases, and if they are present, they can cause intense itchiness for your little friend.

Feeding your guinea pig is dependant on what you feed them in the first few weeks of their life. They will take a fancy to whatever it is you feed them during this time, and that will tend to be their preferred diet for life.In the initial phase of their life, feed them a good range of food, like grass, hay, fresh fruit and vegetables. Occasionally feed them pellets, but caring for your guinea means providing a good balanced diet, so don’t overdo the pellets.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GUINEA PIG

Try to avoid guinea pigs that are panicky when handled, especially if they do not relax quickly, and also those that are overly quiet and calm.
The guinea pig should be alert and active.
Avoid guinea pigs that are overly skinny or grossly overweight. The body should be firm and rounded.
The nose, eyes, ears, and rear end should be clean and free from discharge.
The coat should be full and soft.
Check the skin for flakes or redness, and be on the lookout for any signs of parasites such as lice

Parasites - Guinea pig

most common are parasites in guinea pigs including fleas, mites, and lice.
Fleas
The cat flea is the most common flea affecting guinea pigs and usually become infested when another pet in the house brings in the fleas from outside. Fleas may also cause hair loss, crusty lesions on the skin, and even anemia.A flea comb can be helpful in finding fleas. Contact your veterinarian for the proper treatment.
Mites
There are two mites that cause skin problems in guinea pigs. They may also be hair loss, thickening of the skin, redness. This mite usually affects the head, shoulders, back, and flanks of the guinea pig, but may spread to the entire animal. Secondary bacterial infections can occur. . The mite is transmitted by direct contact, and can temporarily infest people.
Lice
Lice can cause scratching, redness, papules, and scabs, usually around the head and ears. Some infested animals may not show any signs. Lice are spread through direct contact, and sometimes through the bedding. The lice of guinea pigs do not affect humans.