When is my pet a senior?

 

Usually, dogs that are 7 years or older are considered senior. But lifespans do vary with dogs depending on size and breed. Larger breeds are considered senior
around 6 years old while smaller breeds reach their senior years, around 9 years old.

 Difficulty jumping or climbing.
 Eating and drinking less
 Less interaction with family
 Skin and coat changes
 Difficulty standing or walking.
 Weight changes
 Tires easily especially on walks
 Having accidents indoors or in vehicles

 

As your dog ages, their dietary needs will change. Their weight may easily increase due to them being less active and you will notice changes in their ability to see, hear and move. They will also want to rest and sleep for longer periods. Here are some things you can do to help them to move into their golden years gracefully:

 

Maintaining muscle mass, keeping joints mobile and having a healthy heart are all
important in the senior years. But as your furry friend is starting to slow down, keep exercise sessions short but regular. If your dog is looking sore or tired at anytime during the session, let them rest. You may find gentler exercises like swimming and walking are best.

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 Tagiwig Natural Pet Heart Tonic - Heart Tonic is a homeopathic blend designed specifically to support the normal immune response of a cat or dog suffering heart complaints, congestive heart failure and any form of heart disease.

 Biopet - Joints- BioPet Joints is professionally formulated to assist with a healthy immune response to joint complaints, whether the stiffness and discomfort is due to degenerative wear and tear or the result of an injury.

 

 Control their portion sizes and consider feeding a little but often. Their metabolism slows down with aging so be careful with treats as they may quickly increase weight gain.

Switch your pooch over to a complete balanced Senior dog food. Hills Science Diet provide an excellent range of Senior dog foods that have been specifically prepared with nutritional support, brain health, energy and vitality in mind.

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 Senior Vitality 7+ -
Provides precisely balanced nutrition to improve everyday ability to get up and
go in your Adult 7+ dog. Including powerful antioxidants for a healthy brain, as well as nutrients that support activity and an interest in playing, it’s all made with quality ingredients that are easy to digest.

 Adult 7+ Small Paws
Hills Science Diet 7+ Small Paws is tailored nutrition to support ageing in
small and mini dogs. Specially made kibble in nibble size contains a blend of
nutrients for energy and vigor.

 Savoury Stew Beef Adult 7+ can
A delicious wet dog food that combines ingredients with nutrition to support
older dogs in energy and activity level.
TIP: Serve wet food at room temperature to bring out flavour and smell. This
may mean removing food from your refrigerator up to 2 hours before feeding.

Your older dog still needs to meet their daily water requirements to maintain health. Leave out multiple bowls of fresh water for them to access. You may want to consider a Water Fountain that provides a continuous flow of water. Most dogs are attracted to running water. As a general rule dogs require 50-70ml of water per kg body weight.

Keep an eye on your dogs’ teeth. Daily brushing and dental chews will help maintain their teeth. A professional clean when required can also help providing it does not put too much stress on your older dog.

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 Procare Dental Gel- Designed to gently and effectively clean the teeth gums and freshens breath using Natural Baking Soda and soothing Aloe Vera!

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Make sure your dog has a quiet safe space to sleep. As they get older they are not as alert as they once were and maybe easily scared awake by sudden or loud
noises. Look for dedicated senior dog beds. Most of these are made with memory
foam and are closer to the ground so your dog can easily get in and out of bed. You may also want to consider a water-resistant bed if your dog is prone to incontinence. A heating pad with also help with sore joints and arthritis or osteoporosis.

As your dog ages their immune system becomes weaker. It is important to keep on top of parasites. Treat your dog regularly, shake out bedding and vacuum or dust with flea powder.

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 Biopet Fleas & Ticks- BioPet Fleas & Ticks is professionally formulated to assist with a healthy immune response to flea & tick allergies as well as repelling fleas and ticks. It takes a week to build up effect. The repellent effect works by subtly changing the body odour to confuse and deter fleas and ticks from biting.

 Bravecto Chew Fleas, Ticks & Worms - Bravecto kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations and the treatment and control of tick infestations for 12 weeks in dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older.

Provide a range of interactive toys to help provide stimulation. Food mazes, treat
mazes and treat balls are all great for keeping the brain active.

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 Spin Fun Interactive Slow Feeders- SPIN bowls encourage sniffing, licking, and problem-solving during meals, which naturally slow eating and prevent choking, bloating, and excessively fast eating. Each bowl has a multi-functional center puzzle element that can be adjusted in height to offer variation or flip it over to create a whole new option. 

 Doggy Daily Immunity Boost for Senior Dogs- Doggy Daily for Seniors has all the benefits of Doggy Daily plus some extra superfood support.  These 'extras' help to target some of the more common age-related pet health issues such as joint pain and brain function.

As your dog ages, accidents in the house may be more of a common occurrence.
Never growl or discipline your dog when accidents happen. Instead show them
where you want them to toilet indoors, just like you did when they were a puppy. To help avoid this take your dog for regular toilet breaks especially after meals or
drinking. For accidents that occur in their bed, consider water resistant beds or
placing a training pad in the bed under their blankets.

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 Pawise Quilted Training Pads- Pawise disposable pee pads have got your pooch covered!  Perfect for house training young puppies or supporting older dogs, this pack of 14 quilted training pads provides maximum absorbency and a leak-proof design for hassle-free clean up.

 
 SOS Urine Absorbing Agent-  Messes become easy to manage with this liquid absorbing gel. Naturally neutralizes odors and turns any liquid it’s poured on into a dry powder that can easily be vacuumed up.

Knowing how to recognize the signs of ageing and how to help your furry friend in
their senior years will help them to live a longer happier life. Show them lots of love and affection and let them know you are there for them. . After all the years of
unconditional love and companionship your best furry friend has given you, you want to return the favour by keeping them as healthy and happy as you can, for as long as you can.

As always, if you have any worries or concerns for your senior dog’s health have a chat with your vet.