Gray hairs on their muzzle and a slower step are just a couple signs that your furry friend is getting up there in years. Animal care changes for pets as they get older, with larger dogs seeing the effects of age sooner than smaller ones. If they are over 10 years old, they are susceptible to common health problems like kidney disease and arthritis. Take note of a few lifestyle changes to help ease your best friend into their twilight years.

3 Helpful Tips to Care for Your Senior Dog

1. Adjust Their Diet

Just like when you switched your puppy’s food to adult dog food, owners practicing proper animal care should switch senior companions to foods with appropriate nutrients for their age. To avoid weight gain and life-threatening diseases, try giving your dog suitable foods fortified with joint supplements and protein. As you transition, mix their current food with the new food to avoid any digestive issues.

2. Move at Their Pace

Your furry friend may not be able to chase a toy like they used to, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be active as they age. Taking your senior dog to the park is part of a suitable animal care routine, though brisk walks may turn into more gentle strides. Rushing them to eat and go to the bathroom will only cause stress, so leave food out for your dog to graze and let them wander around the yard until they’re ready to go.

3. Show Them Affection

That older muzzle doesn’t mean your companion’s love for you has waned! Often, older dogs are put up for adoption or neglected because owners no longer have time for their slow pace. Canines in their twilight years love belly rubs and behind-the-ear scratches just as much as they did when they were young and spry. Don’t let your dog’s age bring about a sense of neglect or impatience, as love is an integral part of senior animal care. Continue to give your dog the affection they’ll give you no matter your age or condition.

For the best animal care in the Tri-State area, turn to the veterinarians at TLC Pet Care Centers in Cincinnati, OH. Servicing the community for over 40 years with top-of-the-line pet wellness facilities, trust the experts for pet dental and surgery at their established animal hospital. Visit their website for information on pet boarding or call for an appointment at their two locations at (513) 683-2300 for East Cincinnati and (513) 825-4011 for West Cincinnati.