It seems like only yesterday that your pup literally ran circles around you when you went for walks, with lots energy to spare. Now your dog has a hard time making it up the stairs, and the vision and hearing aren't as good as they once were either. Sometimes she gets confused, yet the veterinarian tells you there is nothing seriously wrong with her; she's just getting older. Dogs age, just as humans do -- only more quickly. If your pet seems to be slowing down, here are some things you can do to help.
- Watch your pet carefully, keeping track of where she is in the house. She may need assistance finding her way around.
- Watch with particular care as she climbs up or down the stairs, and help your pet if needed. If she is small and you are strong enough, you may need to carry her up and down the stairs.
- If you also have a younger dogs(s), walk the older animal separately from the youngsters so the older dog can go at a slower pace instead of struggling to keep up with the others.
- Make sure your dog is eating properly. A good super premium senior food is an excellent choice for the geriatric dog. Don't give her hard bones to chew on; she may not be able to handle them.
- Never let her roam loose outdoors. When she is outside the confines of your fenced yard she may easily become lost or become the target of a more aggressive animal.
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