PET M D
SENIOR DOGS PET TALK Texas A&M Un iver sit y College of Vet er in ar y M edicin e & Biom edical Scien ces,
SIGNS OF AN AGING DOG As a dog ages, several changes may occur besides a greying muzzle. Senior dogs have more health concerns than younger dogs, but they can still make playful, loving companions.
Sciences?Dog Aging Project, discusses the most common health conditions that may arise in a senior dog. While there is some variation among breeds, a dog is typically considered a
?I also recommend reaching out to your dog?s veterinarian for suggestions of supplements and, in some cases, medications that can
senior at 8 years old. Large dogs may age faster, becoming seniors as early as 6 or 7, while smaller dogs may not
potentially help with the discomfort of arthritis,? Peraza said. ?Aging doesn?t have to be painful for your
start showing signs of age until they are 9 or 10.
dog.?
One of the most common concerns in senior dogs is arthritis, which can cause a dog to move stiffly and slowly and sometimes also gain weight
Harmony Peraza, a veterinary technician and the study subject manager for the Texas A&M College
because of decreased activity. Providing a soft surface to lay on and reducing exposure to the elements
of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical
are easy ways to help a dog with
40 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM
arthritis stay comfortable.
Many dogs also lose their hearing and vision as they age, but this does not mean that they can no longer live a full and happy life. ?If you notice that your older dog seems withdrawn, is sleeping deeper than usual, doesn?t come to you as readily when called, or seems lost
