Just like the rest of us when our dogs start to get older they need special care and tender loving. We've all heard the research that tells us that people with pets live longer and are happier. Some studies show that having a pet can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Having a pet is also a great stress reliever. So with all the great physical and psychological benefits they give us they deserve the best care we can give them.
What can you do to give your dog the best life possible? One of the first things you can do is keep your dog indoors as much as possible. Dogs that live primarily outside are subject to more infectious diseases. They also have more digestive upset from eating random things off the ground. There is more of a possibility of your dog getting in a fight with another dog when they are outside and if they get out of the yard, well lets just say that no dog is a match for a car.
Something else to think about with outdoor living is the weather. As dogs get older they have a harder time coping with cold temperatures. Big dogs are especially prone to joint problems and just like us the cold can make them ache all over. Lying on cold cement can aggravate any kind of joint problem your dog might have. When the temperature drops it can also dry out their pads to point of cracking and bleeding.
The next way to keep your dog healthy and strong is to watch their weight. Just like humans extra pounds mean extra problems and risks. If you think your dog is overweight check with your vet for suggestions on diet to get your dog back in shape. Sometimes it is hard to deny them the treats they love so much, but there are substitutions for the high calorie dog treats and human treats they crave. A cut up apple for example is low in calories and if you offer it at the times they usually expect a treat they will be happy with it.
Exercise is important for dogs. It keeps them active and limber. And remember if you exercise your dog you get the added benefit of exercise for yourself. Even playing a few minutes a day with your dog and a dog toy can make a difference.
Regular check-ups with the veterinarian can help uncover hidden health problems. The earlier a problem is discovered usually means that the treatment will be simpler and less expensive. If you suspect something is wrong, don't wait, the problem will only get bigger and harder to treat. The vet can also check the general health of your dog and make suggestions for diet and exercise. Keep your dog's vaccinations current to avoid exposing them to unnecessary diseases.
Dental health can have an impact on the overall health of your dog. Bad breath can be a sign of infection and may need to be treated by a vet, but preventative care is simple. You can purchase a soft dog toothbrush at any pet store and special toothpaste since human toothpaste has too much sugar. The dog toothbrush fit over your finger and it gently brushes the food particles and plaque from your dog's teeth. If your dog's mouth is sore he won't eat properly and will miss out on the nutrition he needs.
Along with dental care your dog needs grooming care. Brush your dog to remove loose hair and make their coats shiny. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and contented sighs of joy. How often you bathe your dog depends on the kind of coat it has and how much time it spends outdoors. When you do bathe be careful around the eyes or use special soaps and shampoo that won't hurt them. Keeping your dog's nails trimmed can be a chore because most dogs hate it, but it's important to keep them from getting too long. They can actually curl in on themselves and make walking difficult for your dog. Just be careful not to cut them so short you nick the quick and cause pain for your dog.
Veterinarians recommend that you spay or neuter your dogs. Not only will it help cut down the problems associated with unwanted pets and puppies it will help your dog avoid health problems and live longer.
Another way you can help your aging dog is to make sure they have a comfortable area to sleep in. A younger puppy may be able to tolerate bare floors for sleeping areas but older dogs need some kind of cushioning. Watch for sales on dog pillows to find affordable bedding or use old blankets and bedding to make a comfortable spot for your dog. If you don't mind the cost they even make therapeutic pillows with memory foam for dogs.
And finally, maybe the best advice, give them the love they crave from you. Dogs are pack animals and like nothing better than to be with their humans. Spend time with them, pet them often and give them lots of praise. They are helping us live longer the least we can do is return the favor.
By Connie Lewis
http://www.help-mydogshavetakenovermyhouse.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connie_G_Lewis
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