Grow old with me, the best is yet to be.
“Get a dog” they said, “it will be fun" they said. And indeed it is. Welcoming a dog into your life is transformative and I couldn't imagine living my life without one. Our dogs are cherished as if they were our children- they are family.
However, What people forget to mention when you adopt a dog is that your life will never be the same and that unfortunately dogs don't live as long as we would like. The average life expectancy for dogs is 10 to 12 years. Perhaps it was mentioned, but in the whirlwind of the present, such thoughts were brushed aside. After all, why dwell on events years away.
Yet, reality sets in. Life accelerates, time blurs, and what was once a lively pup becomes a senior companion. Preparing for a puppy involves readying your home, and the same applies to a senior dog. Just like human children, each dog is unique; no two experiences are identical. I've been fortunate to witness all three of my fur babies transition into their golden years—a blessing not granted to everyone.
Riley lived to the age of 13, Penny was 16 when she passed and Winston is a few months shy of being 14. Their senior years ushered in a myriad of challenges. Riley, the athletic ball enthusiast, succumbed to arthritis. Penny, the sun-tanning princess, battled incontinence and a weakened immune system. Winston, the porchdog, grapples with vision and hearing loss, skin issues, and various age-related ailments. Towards the end of their lives it was very difficult and very emotional. However, they were and are worth it.
Caring for a senior dog demands additional time and heaps of patience. Common afflictions include loss of hearing and vision, decreased activity, weight changes, weakened immunity, alterations in skin condition, arthritis, dental issues, behavior shifts, weakness, and urinary problems.
Witnessing your once-vibrant pup slow down is undeniably tough, but proactive measures can enhance their quality of life. Here are some steps to ease the aging process for your canine companion:
- Keep an eye on joint problems. According to the Arthritis Foundation, one in five dogs suffers from canine arthritis. Joint pain includes; arthritis, hip dysplasia, and general joint pain. Symptoms of joint problems include; limping, stiffness, taking more time to stand up and lying down, difficulties on stairs and jumping up and tenderness when being touched in affected areas. We would often have our dogs swim in our pool to help with their joint pain. Swimming is great for dogs!!
- Make sure your dog still gets regular exercise. Chances are your dog won't need or want as much exercise as they once did, but it's still important to exercise your dog. Exercising helps your dog stimulate their mind, keeps their bodies strong, (if you don't use it, you lose it) and helps your dog maintain a healthy weight.
- Have regular vet visits and brush your dog's teeth. Good dental care and staying up to date on vaccines is crucial. Having bloodwork done on your dog allows you to have a good baseline value so you can compare as the dog ages. This is helpful in identifying any issues that might come up.
- Keep an eye on their weight and make sure to give them proper nutrition. Monitoring your dog's weight is extremely important. It is of utmost importance that you notice any increases or decreases. A change in your dog's weight can be a sign that something is going on with your beloved pet. As always, feed your dog healthy nutritious food. Please consult your veterinarian for the best food options.
- Senior proof your home. Having a home that your dog can feel comfortable in is key. Keep the food and water bowls in the same location and avoid moving around furniture. If you have a home that has stairs it's a good idea to put up gates to prevent the dog from going up or down the stairs. Placing runners on hard floors also makes it easier for your dog to move around the house. Slippery floors are terrible for senior dogs.
- Help control their body temperature. If you live in a cold climate, consider getting a good jacket for your dog. My dog Penny would get cold easily, she wore a jacket most of the winter and loved spending time sleeping in front of the fireplace. ❤️ ️If you live in a warmer climate, consider having a little pool that your dog can cool himself in. MAKE SURE TO WATCH YOUR DOG AT ALL TIMES WHEN THEY ARE IN THE WATER! DOGS CAN DROWN.
7. Have a comfy bed. Having a comfortable bed for your dog is a top priority, as most senior dogs sleep over 18 hours a day. There are a lot of dog beds to choose from, warming beds, orthopedic, elevated beds, just to name a few. The most important thing is to give your pup a bed that offers a lot of support. A washable bed is also recommended.
- Check for lumps and bumps. Unfortunately, many dogs will start to develop lumps which can be a sign of cancer. You should check your dog monthly for lumps and make sure to start at the head and work your way down, make sure to check in the hard to reach places as well. Doing a monthly check of your dog is your first line of defense. If you find a lump consult your vet.
- LOVE AND PATIENCE. This should be number one, but I saved the best for last. Having an older dog can be very difficult, your patience will be tested, no question about it!
Remember, the natural progression of age is inevitable. Everyone desires a long and joyous life for their furry companions. Be vigilant to signs and ailments and make sure to consult your vet about various issues that arise. A veterinarian can prescribe medication and suggest supplements that can help your fur baby. Make sure to shower them with affection, and treasure even the moments that challenge you. As Leonardo da Vinci wisely noted, "Life without love, is no life at all."
