Caring for a dog can be one of the most meaningful relationships a person will ever have. However, as they age, their care requirements can change significantly. As your puppy transitions into their senior years, health issues can manifest, and their needs might require the attention of an emergency vet. The following advice will help you provide a comfortable, safe home for your beloved senior canine.

Day-to-Day Care for Aging Canine Companions

It becomes harder for dogs to control their body temperature as they age, which means your senior canine might feel too cold or too hot easily. To maintain warmth during the winter, put a thermal jacket on your pet, and keep walks brief. Inside, put extra blankets with their bedding. Since many senior canines develop arthritis, the cushioning will provide pain relief for their achy muscles. During the summer, walk your pet in the morning or at night when temperatures are cooler. Provide a doghouse or shaded area that will allow them to remain cool while in the yard and always replenish their bowls with ice-cold water. 

When it comes to diet, choose dog foods with high-digestible proteins to prevent muscle mass decline. A diet rich in gamma-linolenic acid will help curb skin- and coat-thinning. As older dogs aren’t as active, obesity could become an issue. To prevent joint discomfort and other weight-related concerns, an emergency vet can recommend specific brands that will help control their weight. 

End-of-Life Care Considerations for Dogs

Cancer and liver disease are two life-threatening illnesses that older dogs can develop. That’s why people with geriatric pets should schedule semi-annual checkups at their veterinary clinics. Bloodwork, urinalysis, and physical exams can detect markers for different diseases. 

If your animal has an illness, an emergency vet or primary physician can discuss end-of-life plans. This could include deciding whether treatment will improve their quality of life while also prolonging it. If not, euthanasia might be suggested to limit your dog’s pain. Otherwise, pet hospice care providers can address your animal’s increasing end-of-life needs. If you keep your dog at home, surrounding them with favorite toys, blankets, and other cherished items will provide a sense of security in their final days. Providing your pet with comfortable bedding will minimize the discomfort they may experience because of pressure sores, which are lesions that can form during long periods of laying in the same location. As they might not be able to walk far to use the bathroom outside, put puppy training pads nearby to prevent the need to clean up accidents.

For routine checkups and emergency vet services, contact the professionals at Clermont Animal Hospital, Inc. in Batavia, OH. Serving the tri-state area since 1980, this animal hospital specializes in treatment for dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, and exotic pets, including cold laser therapy and ear cropping. View a full list of their services online and call (513) 732-1730 today to schedule an appointment. Stay up to date with announcements and health tips on Facebook.