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The Golden Years
Most dogs' lifespan is 12 years. An average-sized 1-year-old dog is equal to a 15-year-old person; at 2 years, equal to a 24-year-old person. After the second year, each dog's yearly age is equivalent to 4 human years. A 9-year-old dog is equivalent to a 52-year-old person. Giant breeds age differently. A 1-year-old is equivalent to a 12-year-old person and then ages 7 human years for each canine year.
Small and medium dogs are seniors at 7 to 9 years and giant dogs are seniors at 5 to 7 years. Small dogs generally live longer than large dogs because they tend to have fewer medical problems.
As dogs age, their metabolism changes as it does in humans. Following are changes that dogs go through as they age:
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Coping with Heat or Cold - They have a decreased sensitivity to thirst, causing them to dehydrate easily. Difficulty in tolerating the heat or cold is caused by problems in adjusting their body temperature.
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Decrease in Smell and Taste - Because they lose their interest in food they can become thin or malnourished. Hearing and seeing abilities decrease. Cataracts are common, poodles being prime candidates. They become disoriented and can get lost.
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Dental Problems - Dental disease worsens if it is not taken care of when the dog is younger. Gum infections can be dangerous.
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Entire Digestive System Slows Down - Less saliva is produced to start digestion; less liver function; less intestinal absorption of nutrients; and a decrease in the movement of the intestines. Vomiting, large stools, gas constipation and poor nutrition result because nutrients pass through the intestines without being digested. Food with less protein is required and fed at least three time per day.
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Skin and Coat Changes - The skin loses its elasticity and becomes dry or oily. The muzzle will gray and the nails become brittle. The skin becomes more sensitive.
How We Can Help
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T-shirts and sweaters are a must in the winter. In the summer, when out on walks/hikes, take along a portable water system. Indoor/outdoor pet doors allow the senior pet to go in and out of the heat.
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To help encourage eating, canned food can be part of the meal because it generally smells better than dry. One brand of canned food should not be mixed with another brand of dry food. Canned food may be necessary for dogs with tooth and gum problems. Senior food should only be fed. Lowfat treats and supplements to take care of digestive problems are available. Antioxidants to help fight the damage caused by free radicals should be given.
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Use skin and coat supplements for skin problems and shampoos for sensitive skin.
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Natural arthritis supplements and safe heating pads made especially for pets should be used for the stiff older dog.
As pet owners we need to be aware of the problems and solutions available to improve the quality of life for our older pets.
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