ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CARING FOR A SENIOR DOG

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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CARING FOR A SENIOR DOG
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• Whether youve just adopted a senior dog, or your
  own pooch is getting old, they will have
  different care requirements than those of a
  younger canine. However, it might not always be
  obvious when a dog should be classed as being a
  senior, and it generally depends upon the
  individual dog.
• Is your dog a senior?
• Some general guidelines for determining when a
  dog is senior include the rule that giant breeds
  age at a faster rate than smaller breeds. For
  example, when a Great Dane reaches 5 or 6 years
  of age, they are classed as being senior, in
  comparison to a Chihuahua who would be classed as
  middle-aged until they reach 10 or 11 years of
  age.

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• For large breeds such as Golden Retrievers, they
  are generally thought to have reached their
  senior years when they are between 8 and 10 years
  of age.
• The environment a dog is raised in, along with
  nutrition and genetics can all play a significant
  role in determining how fast a dog ages, and when
  a dog reaches its senior years, it may develop a
  degenerative disease that slows them down.
• What can you do to help your senior dog live life
  to the fullest?
• Aside from showing your beloved senior pet that
  you love them by cherishing them and making them
  feel special, there are several things that you
  can do to help protect them from diseases and
  increase their lifespan

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• Take your pet to the vet often
• Senior dogs need to be examined by a vet at least
  once a year, and more often if they are found to
  have underlying health conditions.
• At the vets, request a body condition evaluation
• These evaluations are vital for determining
  whether your senior dog may be over or
  underweight.
• Help keep your pets weight healthy with an
  appropriate diet
• Talk to your vet about the right diet for your
  pet and ensure that your senior canine doesnt
  become overweight.

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• Dogs that are overweight are more likely to
  develop diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers
  or skin conditions. If your dog does have a
  problem with their heart or kidneys, your vet
  will be able to recommend a special diet that
  will keep them healthy for longer.
• Dont neglect your dogs mouth
• If brushing your dogs teeth isnt possible, then
  give them dental treats and toys that will help
  to keep their teeth clean. Dental diseases are
  common among senior pets, and you may need
  intervention from a vet if your pets mouth is in
  a bad condition.

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• Give your dog exercise, but the right amount
• Again, your vet will be able to guide you as to
  how often, and for how long you should exercise
  your senior pet, but exercise is vital for
  helping to maintain healthy joints and muscles,
  and for keeping your dog lean.
• Consider your pets comfort levels
• If your senior dog has arthritis, then treat them
  to a soft bed or blanket to rest on, and if they
  are struggling to access certain areas of your
  home that they used to frequent, you could make a
  ramp to help them.

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• Senior dogs can make wonderful pets, and with the
  wisdom they have gained from their long life,
  there is probably a lot we can learn from them!
• K9 Second Line has been in business since 2011
  and we provide the best possible care to each of
  our clients. Our dedicated team of animal lovers
  and best pet sitters in new orleans provide
  peace-of-mind while ensuring your pet is safe,
  secure and comfortable in their home whether you
  are at work or on vacation. We individualize
  services to tailor to you and your pet's exact
  needs. If you are looking for dog walker or pet
  sitting in New Orleans, check out our services at
  https//k9secondline.com. We would love to meet
  you and your pet today!