The bond that you share with your pet intensifies with age. Once they enter their golden years, typically at the age of seven and older, their companionship is something unique. However, as with people, aging pets have variable health needs that will require some special assistance. The answer is preventive care that will maintain their golden years as comfortable, joyful, and healthy as possible.
Here in Houston, factors like heat and humidity can present unique challenges for older dogs and cats. At Bingle Vet, we’ve spent over 30 years helping pets thrive through every stage of life. Here are our top seven essential health tips for caring for your senior companion.
1. Schedule Biannual Wellness Exams
Things can change fast with an older pet. Annual check-ups are great for young pets; however, as your pet becomes a senior, you may want to schedule twice-yearly wellness exams. Then our veterinarians can establish a strong baseline and recognize potential issues like arthritis, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or cancer in their earliest, most treatable stages. These exams are the cornerstone of preventive senior care.
2. Tailor Their Diet to Their Age
Older dogs metabolize more slowly, so they quickly become overweight, putting stress on their joints in their aging body. Talk with us about the transition to high-end senior dog food. Senior dog food is typically low in calories but rich in fiber, and most contain beneficial supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin that are beneficial in the care of the joints. Portion control is helpful in maintaining a lean body condition.
3. Prioritize Dental Health
Dental illness is more than bad breath. Over the years, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to irritated gums, missing teeth, and bacteria gaining entry into the blood system, and in rare cases, the heart, liver, and kidneys may be compromised. If you notice that your pet’s breath is foul, they’re vomiting food, or they’re just not that interested in food, then you should get a dental check-up. Periodic professional dental cleanings are one of the best ways of protecting your aging pet’s overall health. Here is a detailed article on why pet dental health matters.
4. Tailor Their Exercise Routine to the Climate of Houston
Exercise remains important in maintaining muscle tone and keeping the weight under control, but in moderation. Substitute long, stressful runs with more frequent, shorter walks. Be particularly attentive in the humid heat of the Houston climate.
- Go during cooler parts of the day, like the morning or evening.
- Always test the sidewalk with your own palm; if it’s hot enough for you, it’s hot enough for their paws.
- Try low-impact exercises such as swimming, which is excellent at relieving stiff joints.
5. Make Your House Comfortable
Simple modifications at home can dramatically affect the lives of dogs that are losing mobility or vision.
- Offer orthopedic beds to support stiff joints.
- Use ramps to aid in getting in the car or onto the favorite couch.
- Use slip-resistant rugs on smooth floors to avoid falls.
- Keep their food, water, and bedding in the same, conveniently accessible place.
6. Watch for Nuanced Behavioral Changes
No one knows your pet better than you. Apparently, trivial changes in their daily routine or activities can be the first sign of some underlying issue. Be on the lookout for:
- Greater or lesser thirst and urination
- Appetite changes or weight changes
- New lumps, bumps, or skin issues
- Long-term cough or breathlessness
- Stiffening or lameness
- Confusion, disorientation, or increased anxiety
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Always get them checked out.
7. Practice Routine Parasite Prevention
Older pets may have weaker immune systems, so they are more at risk from parasites. At home in Houston, the parasites—fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes that transmit heartworms—are always present. Monthly parasite protection is essential to keep at bay the preventable diseases that could affect the pets.
Your Partner in Senior Pet Care
The care of your pet’s golden years is being an active participant in their health. At Bingle Vet, our friendly team is available to provide the special care that your senior friend requires.
Give the gift of health to your favorite person. Schedule a senior wellness exam at our Houston or Katy clinic today, and let’s begin making their golden years the best years.