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Keeping a Senior Dog Comfortable

May 1, 2021

Sooner or lat er, every dog owner has a moment when they realize that their furry best friend is becoming a senior. Fido will never stop being the lovable, adoring companion you’ve come to cherish. He may even become even sweeter and more affectionate as he ages. However, his needs will change a bit. Here, a Washington DC vet discusses keeping your pooch comfy and content in his golden years.


B  eds

Older dogs spend a lot of time snoozing. Fido may spend up to half of his time in his doggy bed, dreaming of bacon, car rides, and squirrels. Make sure he has a comfy one! We recommend getting orthopedic beds for older dogs. You may actually want to get him more than one bed. It’s nice to have options!


Grooming

Fido probably won’t be any fonder of baths now than he was as a puppy, but he still needs them. Your canine buddy won’t be very comfortable with itchy, dirty fur! Dental care and nail trims are also important. Keep up with your pup’s beauty care needs.


Supplements             

Supplements can actually be very helpful for older dogs. Many older pooches benefit from things like glucosamine or fish oil, which can help with stiff joints. Of course, the exact ones that will benefit Fido most will depend on his size, breed, age, and health. Ask your vet for specific advice.


Veterinary Care

Make sure your furry bff sees his doctor regularly. Regular exams can reveal any developing medical issues early on. This can be extremely beneficial. It’s also important to keep up with Fido’s wellness care. Your vet can also give you updated advice on your pet’s changing care needs.


Temperature Control

Older dogs can be very sensitive to temperature extremes. In summer, make sure Fido stays cool and comfy. In winter, he may need a doggy jacket to protect him from chilly weather.


Doggy Comforts

There are actually quite a few products out there that can make life easier for your canine companion. Pet ramps can help Fido get in and out of the car more easily. Your pooch may also appreciate elevated dishes.


Tail Wags

Cherish this special time with Fido, and indulge his adorable request for belly rubs. Senior dogs are super cute!


Please contact us if ever we can be of assistance. As your Washington DC veterinary clinic, 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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