Senior Pets ~ Questions Answered { @IAMS #PGmom }
We have a senior dog, she has been our baby since long before we had babies. Now that she is getting older I am noticing some signs I didn’t know the answers for. I was given the change from Iams to ask Dr. Amy Dicke. She did a wonderful job answering my burning questions on our senior dogs health.
Why are my senior dog’s eyes cloudy?
A cloudy appearance in the eyes of an older dog can be associated with natural aging changes, but it can also be a sign of a serious condition. A trip to the veterinarian for a complete physical and medical work-up can help ensure your pet’s continued health and eye sight.
How come her back end, looks thinner as she gets older?
As dogs age there is a natural tendency to lose muscle mass, which is often more noticeable in the heavy muscled areas of the hind legs. This will have an impact on their activity levels and playfulness. A diet targeting the senior pet can help them maintain an optimal weight and muscle condition, we can keep them fit for longer. The more muscle they retain as they age, the more active and playful they will be. Diets with animal-based proteins and appropriate calorie and fat levels will help maintain an optimal weight. In addition, a vitamin-like nutrient called L-carnitine can help utilize fat and maintain muscle. L-carnitine naturally occurs in animal-based proteins and can also be added as an ingredient in senior pet foods. To keep joints healthy, ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are important in pet foods. These are natural building blocks of healthy joints, which can help keep pets active for longer.
Any other tips or senior dogs?
We need to remember dogs age approximately 6 to 7 times faster than humans, so fairly dramatic health changes can occur in a short period of time.
Schedule regular veterinary visits – make sure your dog is getting a physical exam every 6 to 12 months. Early detection of illness can be life saving
Feed an age appropriate diet which incorporates key nutrients targeted to the nutritional needs of an older dog. Look for products with antioxidants, such as vitamin E to support immunity; the prebiotic fructoologosaccahirdes to support digestive health; glucosamine, a building block of joint cartilage; and omega 3 fatty acids to sustain haircoat quality. Be cognizant of changes to daily habits and activities it may be indicative of a health concern.
Keep your senior exercising on a regular basis. Low impact activities can help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility.
Great tips! Thank you Dr. Amy Dicke and Iams for the opportunity!
Great tips! Thank you Dr. Amy Dicke and Iams for the opportunity!Have you noticed your dog has been aging?
Thanks for reading In R Dream!
DISCLAIMER: The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only. This information should not be substituted for the guidance and advice of your veterinarian or animal behavior professional. For nutritional information please visit www.iams.ca or contact the Iams Consumer Care Nutrition Specialists toll free at 1-800-675-3849