Greencross Vets ‘The approximate age where a pet is considered senior is when they’re older than seven. We also need to consider their breed – sometimes, larger breed dogs can age faster and have a shorter lifespan than smaller dogs.’
Did you know…
Did you know that dogs age around seven times faster than humans? Like us, their needs change as they get older. Knowing when your pet is considered senior will help them to get the best out of their retirement years. Dr Roslyn Lui of Greencross Vets Werribee says:
Possible health issues
It is important for you understand the possible health issues your fur baby will be facing as they enter the senior stage
- Arthritis – Changes in mobility
- Cancer symptoms – New lumps and bumps
- Dental problems Smelly breath, painful chewing, drooling or appetite changes
- Heart problems Coughing, breathing difficulty, weight loss, loss of energy
5 Precautions you could take before you dog enters the seniors stage
Just like humans, you have to pay attention to your adult dog’s health who would be entering the senior stage soon. These precautions will ensure that your fur baby remains happy and healthy through their senior stage.
Modified exercise regime
Regular moderate exercise helps to maintain muscle mass and keep your senior pet’s joints mobile. They may not be as quick at fetch but taking them on a suitably-paced walk or jog will keep them happy, healthy, and fighting fit.
Closer monitoring of skin and lumps
Keeping a keen eye on your senior pet for any lumps and bumps will ensure that possible cancers or tumours are treated as swiftly as possible. Cancer is more prevalent in ageing dogs, so ensure you monitor any changes in your pet and contact your local Greencross clinic when you notice lumps forming Talk to your local Greencross Vets to learn what tests to be taken to ensure your dog is healthy.
Nutrition and diet/ Dietary
As our dog’s age they develop a decrease in energy levels, so it is important that they are eating a complete and balanced diet that is lower in calories but still has adequate protein and fat to maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the chance of becoming overweight. Talk to your local Greencross Vets to have a tailored diet plan for your dog.
Frequent health check-ups
As animals age, their health status changes faster than their younger counterparts. Issues common in senior pets include arthritis, heart disease, cataracts, organ failure, hearing or vision loss, and tumours. More frequent health checks with your Greencross Vet will detect any issues early on, so your senior pet can live as long and happily as possible.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations can protect your pet from several illness and diseases. Maintaining your pet’s vaccination program will help to ensure that your dog stays safe and continues to be protected.
$30 off professional services*
Book online and redeem in clinic.
*Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer including Healthy Pets Plus. Excludes food, medications, grooming and merchandise. Applicable for dogs and cats aged 6 and above. One voucher per pet. Can be used only at Greencross Vets clinics. Ends 31 May 2019.
