Skip to main content
Pettecc
0
  • Home
  • Where to buy
  • Blog
  • Products
    • Ball Launcher
    • Cat Toys
    • Collars and leads
    • Dog Toys
    • Feeders
    • Home
    • Pet Accessories
    • Pet Camera/Treater
    • Tracker
    • Water Fountain
  • About Us
Pettecc
0
  • Home
  • Where to buy
  • Blog
  • Products
    • Ball Launcher
    • Cat Toys
    • Collars and leads
    • Dog Toys
    • Feeders
    • Home
    • Pet Accessories
    • Pet Camera/Treater
    • Tracker
    • Water Fountain
  • About Us
  • Home
  • Our Blog
  • HOW TO CARE FOR AN AGING PET

HOW TO CARE FOR AN AGING PET

PETTECC AUSTRALIA   15 November 2019 

By Tessa Miller - July 17, 2019 - A www.nytimes.com article

Older dogs and cats require a little extra love and care, whether they’re new to your home or they’ve been with you for years. Here’s what you need to know.

I have dogs. I have four dogs. I have four dogs in New York City.

In my defense, it happened by accident. See, I had two and my husband had two, so we Brady Bunch-ed them when we got married. I love them equally but this piece will focus on the eldest, Gixer, who’s 10½. (I may refer to him here by one of his many nicknames: Jiggy, JigPig, Gixy, Jiggy Pie, Jiggus McPiggus, Jiggus M. Piggus Attorney at Dog, Bird, Turd, Bubba. He might have a couple more by the time I finish writing.)

A few weeks ago, I was in the park with Gixer when a man and his young daughter walked by. “That dog looks so old,” the man said as he passed. I felt a pang in my chest. Despite my best efforts to freeze time, my boy is aging and it shows: his beard and eyebrows have gone white, he moves with arthritic stiffness, he’s got a bum knee that causes him to limp sometimes. His eyes are a bit cloudy, though his vision is still good, and he has a few fatty lumps just below the skin — benign lipomas that come with age. His anxiety, especially at nighttime, has increased, and his unpredictable grumpiness is directed at everything from skateboards to shopping bags.

Gixer, otherwise, is in good health. In all likelihood, we’ll have several more years together, which still doesn’t feel like long enough — not even close. But I’ll get to enjoy his pre-dawn snuggles under the covers, and his gentle licks on my hands and nose as we fall asleep. I’ll get to watch his hilarious bursts of energy, reserved for “walk,” “eat” and “I’m gonna get you,” a game in which the outcome is belly scratches (inevitably, he lets me get him). He’ll surely follow me to the bathroom every time I shower or bathe, sitting on the tub’s edge to watch over me. We’ll share many more special treats, like rotisserie chicken, pizza crust and ice cream, and we’ll take lots of car rides so he can hang his head out the window and let his tongue flap in the breeze. We’ll walk to his favorite baseball field, and he’ll sniff every blade of grass as he has a thousand times before. He’ll lie on my chest for plenty of afternoon naps, and I’ll make up songs to sing him to sleep, replacing popular lyrics with his name and all the things he likes.

We’ve learned how to best manage Gixer’s mental and physical ailments: special freeze-dried food, a daily dose of CBD oil (more on that later), weighted blankets and Thundershirts, steps so he can access the bed, regular exercise at his pace, massages, a heating pad and routine checkups.

But as anyone with an aging pet can relate, I always wonder if there’s more we could do to keep him happy and healthy. So I spoke with some experts — an animal behaviorist, two veterinarians and a certified dog trainer — to find out how to give our best buddies their best golden years.

FIRST, KNOW WHAT SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR AND KEEP TRACK OF THEM.

Dr. Nicholas Dodman is co-founder of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies and a professor emeritus at Tufts University. He offered a thorough list of common medical problems to watch out for in older pets, including: arthritis (especially of the knees and hips), kidney disease, dental disease, dementia, heart disease, diabetes, urinary incontinence and cancer.

Some of these are easier for us humans to notice than others, which is why it’s important to note even seemingly insignificant changes in your pet.

“They can’t tell us when something is bothering them, and we’re often only able to discern that something is wrong when it hits a tipping point,” Denise Herman, founder and lead trainer at Empire of the Dog in New York City, said. “Some things become harder to treat by the time we see them physically manifest.”

Jot down anything you notice in a journal (for example, changes in thirst or appetite, bodily functions, sleeping patterns, energy levels, mental awareness, lumps or bumps) and then take it to your veterinarian appointments.

SPEAKING OF VET VISITS, YOUR SENIOR PET NEEDS TO GO MORE OFTEN THAN BEFORE.

Dr. Dodman told me that aging pets should see their vet no less than twice a year for checkups, and Ms. Herman agreed: “If you really want your pet’s health on point as they age, it’s important to have regular visits with a vet who is super knowledgeable about elderly animals.”

These appointments get expensive as a pet ages and requires more care than a younger animal. Pet insurance can help offset some of these costs, and comes in especially handy for unplanned expenses and emergencies. (Pro tip: Before you decide on an insurance plan, be sure your vet accepts it.)

PHYSICAL AILMENTS CAN BE EASIER TO TREAT THAN MENTAL ONES.

“I find that the metabolic, cardiac and endocrine issues are the easier ones to treat,” said Dr. Natara Loose, a Brooklyn-based veterinarian and board-certified emergency critical care specialist. “The emotional, mental and financial changes with supporting” an aging pet “are most difficult for clients.”

“Senility in pets is very similar to Alzheimer’s in people: They have good days and bad days but the bad days can be tough to get through,” Dr. Loose explained. “Pets may pace constantly, vocalize, get stuck in random places in the home, not recognize you, or eat things they shouldn’t.”

The good news is that there are more treatment options than ever, including medications and special diets, for dogs with cognitive issues. Dr. Loose praised gabapentin, a nerve pain medication “that has become more widely used in vet medicine for a wide range of purposes, like situational anxiety, fear of traveling, senility, pain control and even some mild seizure control. It’s becoming a staple for numerous ailments.”

Other treatments for senility include melatonin, CoQ10, acetyl L-carnitine, and moderate exercise and socialization, Dr. Dodman said. (As always, discuss with your vet before starting any new treatment.)

Puzzle games and toys keep an older pet’s brain engaged, Ms. Herman suggested, like “hollow rubber toys and hollow bones that you can fill with things” — like treats or peanut butter — “that they can hang out with and chew.” These puzzle toys also provide exercise for senior pets who can’t sustain much aerobic or impact-driven exercise.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF “ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES,” WITH GUIDANCE FROM YOUR VET.

CBD and hemp oils are all the rage for humans and pets alike, touted as a panacea for things as varied as headaches and insomnia, but the science doesn’t exist yet to back up any claims. (This is changing, though, as animal studies regarding arthritis, anxiety and seizures are underway.)

“I think CBD holds great promise, especially for treating anxiety and for pain,” Dr. Dodman said, “but check doses with your vet.”

The CBD and hemp oil markets are largely unregulated, so it’s important to thoroughly research products before giving them to your pet.

“Technically it’s illegal for any vet to discuss or recommend because it’s listed as a D.E.A. Schedule 1 drug, even if it’s just hemp-derived,” Dr. Loose said. “Ironically, though, any local pet shop or online store can dispense and discuss these things without any real quality assurance or medical knowledge.” She recommended reaching out to the manufacturer for further information on how its products are sourced and measured.

“For a lot of years, people have been using acupuncture with their pets to treat joint stiffness, energy and pain,” Ms. Herman said. “I would lump CBD in with acupuncture as an alternative therapy that’s a ‘do no harm’ and the potential to help seems more than incidental.”

Another popular alternative therapy for older pets, especially if they’re dealing with arthritis, pain or mobility issues, is aqua therapy. Dr. Francisco DiPolo is a New York-based veterinarian and director at Water for Dogs Rehabilitation Center, which offers swim therapy and underwater treadmills, as well as laser, ultrasound and more traditional physical therapy.

“Any organized rehabilitation program designed to strengthen the body has a positive impact on the quality of life of an older pet,” Dr. DiPolo said. “Most older pets have chronic debilitating diseases like arthritis, and a good exercise regimen can slow down the progression.”

JUST AS SCIENCE IS HELPING HUMANS LIVE LONGER, IT’S HELPING PETS LIVE LONGER, TOO.

But longer doesn’t always mean better. It’s important to pay attention to pets’ quality of life as they get older and to be sure we aren’t keeping them around for our own sake when they’re in pain or suffering.

“That last loving decision you make for your beloved friend is going to be the hardest day of your life,” Dr. Loose said, “but they are depending on you to make the kindest, most loving decision for them.

The Times columnist Tara Parker-Pope wrote a wonderful pieceabout knowing when to say goodbye to her dog, based on what’s called the HHHHHMM scale. You can read about the indicators and how to rate them in her article.

When I asked the experts what one piece of advice they’d each give to a pet parent with an aging animal, the sentiment was similar: love the crap out of them.

Now excuse me while I go do just that.

Tessa Miller is a health and science journalist who’s contributed to Lifehacker, The Daily Beast, Vice, Self, The Cut, and The New York Times. She lives in Brooklyn, NY. You can follow her on Twitter @tessajeanmiller.

 

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest

Leave a Comment

Comments have to be approved before showing up

Service

Service

  • My Account
  • Track Order
  • Resolution Centre

About Us

About Us

  • About Us
  • Our Blog
  • Contact Us

Information

Information

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Returns Policy
  • Security Policy
  • Terms of Trade

Stay In Touch

Copyright © 2021 Pettecc
Powered by Donohue Consultancy
ABN: 61 618 150 735
  • PayPal Express
  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa

Terms & Conditions

Welcome to our website. If you continue to browse and use this website, you are agreeing to comply with and be bound by the following terms and conditions of use, which together with our privacy policy govern Pettecc’s relationship with you in relation to this website. If you disagree with any part of these terms and conditions, please do not use our website.

The term ‘Pettecc’ or ‘us’ or ‘we’ refers to the owner of the website whose registered office is Suite 802 147 Pirie St, ADELAIDE, SA 5000, Australia. Our ABN is 61 618 150 735. The term ‘you’ refers to the user or viewer of our website.

The use of this website is subject to the following terms of use:

  • The content of the pages of this website is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice.
  • Neither we nor any third parties provide any warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness or suitability of the information and materials found or offered on this website for any particular purpose. You acknowledge that such information and materials may contain inaccuracies or errors and we expressly exclude liability for any such inaccuracies or errors to the fullest extent permitted by law.
  • Your use of any information or materials on this website is entirely at your own risk, for which we shall not be liable. It shall be your own responsibility to ensure that any products, services or information available through this website meet your specific requirements.
  • This website contains material which is owned by or licensed to us. This material includes, but is not limited to, the design, layout, look, appearance and graphics. Reproduction is prohibited other than in accordance with the copyright notice, which forms part of these terms and conditions.
  • All trademarks reproduced in this website, which are not the property of, or licensed to the operator, are acknowledged on the website.
  • Unauthorised use of this website may give rise to a claim for damages and/or be a criminal offence.
  • From time to time, this website may also include links to other websites. These links are provided for your convenience to provide further information. They do not signify that we endorse the website(s). We have no responsibility for the content of the linked website(s).
  • Your use of this website and any dispute arising out of such use of the website is subject to the laws of Australia.

Privacy Policy

This privacy policy sets out how we uses and protects any information that you give us when you use this website.

We are committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide certain information by which you can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement.

We may change this policy from time to time by updating this page. You should check this page from time to time to ensure that you are happy with any changes.

What we collect

We may collect the following information:

  • name and job title
  • contact information including email address
  • demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests
  • other information relevant to customer surveys and/or offers

What we do with the information we gather

We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:

  • Internal record keeping.
  • We may use the information to improve our products and services.
  • We may periodically send promotional emails about new products, special offers or other information which we think you may find interesting using the email address which you have provided.
  • From time to time, we may also use your information to contact you for market research purposes. We may contact you by email, phone, fax or mail. We may use the information to customise the website according to your interests.

Security

We are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.

How we use cookies

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about webpage traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes and then the data is removed from the system.
Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.
You can choose to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. This may prevent you from taking full advantage of the website.

Links to other websites

Our website may contain links to other websites of interest. However, once you have used these links to leave our site, you should note that we do not have any control over that other website. Therefore, we cannot be responsible for the protection and privacy of any information which you provide whilst visiting such sites and such sites are not governed by this privacy statement. You should exercise caution and look at the privacy statement applicable to the website in question.

Controlling your personal information

You may choose to restrict the collection or use of your personal information in the following ways:

  • whenever you are asked to fill in a form on the website, look for the box that you can click to indicate that you do not want the information to be used by anybody for direct marketing purposes
  • if you have previously agreed to us using your personal information for direct marketing purposes, you may change your mind at any time by writing to or emailing us.

We will not sell, distribute or lease your personal information to third parties unless we have your permission or are required by law to do so. We may use your personal information to send you promotional information about third parties which we think you may find interesting if you tell us that you wish this to happen.

If you believe that any information we are holding on you is incorrect or incomplete, please write to or email us as soon as possible at the above address. We will promptly correct any information found to be incorrect.