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Fido’s Golden Years

September 1, 2020

Is your dog becoming more interesting in napping than in playing Fetch? Is Fido spending more time catching Z’s than catching squirrels? It can be startling to realize that your playful pup has somehow become a senior. Your canine companion will still be adorable and affectionate as he ages, and he’ll never lose his love of bacon, but he will need some extra TLC. A local Washington DC vet discusses senior dog care below.

Beds

Comfy beds are at the top of the list, and with good reason. Your pooch won’t sleep well on a thin pad! We recommend orthopedic beds for senior dogs. They offer extra support, which will help Fido stay comfy as he’s dreaming of bacon.

Comforts

Small touches that can help keep your canine friend comfortable. Raised dishes are more comfortable for many older dogs than bowls on the floor. If Fido develops mobility issues, pet ramps or stairs will help him get around.

Grooming

Fido probably won’t like baths any more now than he did as a puppy, but he does appreciate being soft and clean. Keep up with your pup’s beauty needs, including nail trims and dental care.

Exercise

Don’t let Fido become a complete couch potato! Your pooch will still need regular activity to stay healthy. Walks are pretty much the standard for older dogs, but your furry pal can still enjoy swimming and playing. Just consult your vet regularly, and be careful not to overexert your pet.

Veterinary Care

Fido will benefit from more frequent visits as he grows older. Keep up with his wellness care! At home, watch for signs of illness. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything unusual.

Diet

Obesity is (literally) a big problem with our canine companions. Fido will naturally slow down in his golden years, so he won’t be burning as many calories as he once did. This will make it easy for him to pack on pounds! While chubby dogs are cute, they’re also at risk of some very dangerous medical issues. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Love

Savor this special time with your furry bff. Senior dogs often get a very sweet, affectionate demeanor that is an absolute joy. Pay lots of attention to Fido, and keep that tail going!

Please contact us, your Washington DC vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!

Poison Prevention Week starts March 20th. This is a very important topic for anyone with pets. There are over 232,000 cases of pet poisonings in the US every year! Our furry friends don't know what is and isn't safe for them, so you'll need to take some precautions to keep your beloved pet safe. A Washington DC vet lists some ways to prevent pet poisoning in this article. Keep Cabinets Locked Many toxic chemicals and household products are stored in cabinets, often underneath sinks. Keeping these locked is a simple step that can prevent tragedy. Keep in mind that your four-legged friend doesn't have to actually eat or drink these substances. Because most animals lick themselves clean, they only need to walk through it or get it spilled on their fur to ingest it. Choose Non-Toxic Plants Plants are one of the most common culprits when it comes to pet poisoning. While there are many that are dangerous to all pets, others are more toxic to some animals than to others. For instance, lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, while Sago palms are a huge risk for dogs. Check the ASPCA site here for a list of safe and unsafe plants. Know The Warning Signs Although the signs of poison ingestion can vary, depending on the pet and the type and amount of substance involved, there are some common red flags to look for. These include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, agitation, restlessness, trembling, collapse, unusual vocalizations, and diarrhea. Pale gums are also a warning sign, as is a rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing. Cats may withdraw, while dogs may pace or whimper. It’s worth noting that while these things can be indicative of many medical issues, they should always constitute a call to the vet. Understand The Dangers It's also important to know what is and isn't poisonous. Some things, such as household chemicals, antifreeze, and rodenticides, are well-known. Others? Not so much. For instance, many people don’t know that a single grape or raisin can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Medication is also a common source of poisoning. Ask your vet for more information. Training This one applies more to dogs, of course. However, consider teaching Fido to Leave It. This simple command could help prevent tragedy! Do you have questions about your pet's health or safety? Contact us, your Washington DC animal clinic, today!

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