Helping Your Dog Age Gracefully And Without Pain: What You Should Do
When your dog starts showing grey around their muzzle, stops running the yard like they used to, and moves a bit slower than they once did, it means your dog is beginning to show signs of aging. Your aging dog may be on their second act, but that puppy you fell in love with is still in there. They still need your care, love, and attention, but you do need to make some changes. Your aging dog is going to need a bit of different care from you. Here is some information that can help your dog age gracefully.
Change Their Food
One of the first things you should do is change your dog's food. The puppy food or active dog food you once fed them is not going to cut it. You need to give your dog a different type of diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals in order to keep their bones healthy and strong. Look for food that is made for elderly dogs, and talk to your veterinarian about which brand of dog food is best for your aging pup.
Improve Joint Function
Improve your dog's joint function by giving them supplements to aid in muscle stability, improve bone density, and prevent joint pain or injuries. Your aging dog may think they can still run and chase after things, however, it may now take them a few days to recover. Your pet may even come back limping from time to time. If this is the case, be sure to give them supplements to help prevent injuries.
Change Your Exercise Routine
Your dog is still going to need some exercise, but if you used to run with them, you may instead need to go on a brisk walk, or maybe even a slow-paced walk. Give your dog's exercise routine an adjustment to accommodate their aging body. They are not going to be able to move like they once did, and if their old routine is getting more difficult, you will need to change their routine.
If your dog is starting to show their age a bit more, it's time to take notice and change a few things to help prevent injuries, pain, and to help lengthen their life. Talk to your veterinarian about other things you can do to help your dog age gracefully and to add years to their life that are free of pain. Contact a veterinary clinic for more information.
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