6. Check out new supplements and drugs. Ask your veterinarian about adding vitamin supplements to your dog's diet. Anti-oxidants like vitamins A, C and E can strengthen your dog's immunity and are a good preventive measure. Glucosamine can help soothe joint pain in arthritic dogs.
Medications can restore quality of life for dogs with certain conditions. The Food and Drug Administration recently approved L-deprenyl, a drug used to treat Parkinson's disease in humans, for treating Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, a type of canine Alzheimer's. Diabetic dogs need insulin. Arthritic Hathaway took the pain reliever carprofen, as does paralyzed Gertie, because pain management reduces depression and increases activity and zest for living.
7. Splish splash, take baths. Frequent baths and brushing soothe the discomfort, stop the smell and stimulate healing of skin ailments common in older dogs. Gertie suffers from bedsores, so Lojko bathes her often and treats sores with diaper rash cream.
Fleas spell trouble for dogs of any age but are worse for older dogs, which have weaker immune systems. Regular flea treatments are a must. Consult your veterinarian about the safest flea control for your senior dog.
8. Rub your dog the right way. Massaging your dog's muscles stimulates circulation and metabolism. It also comforts your dog and alerts you to possible problems. "You may be able to pick up early signs of illness, feel lumps, find sores you might not feel otherwise," Dr. Simon said. How does your dog react? Does it tighten up in one spot? That may indicate pain. But mostly, your dog will love it.
"I'm sure it makes them feel good - doesn't it feel good to you?" said Susan Cotter, DVM and professor of veterinary medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton, Mass. "It helps loosen up muscles, but more important is bonding, touch. Petting, spending time, coaxing, encouraging all can help an animal." They cheer up an older dog, and a happy dog is a healthy dog.
9. Stop and smell the roses. Aging stresses your dog. "Gertie's frustrated as an older dog," Lojko said. "She used to love to run around. She feared no dog. She was extremely independent. Now she can't walk; she's lost her independence."
Stress weakens your dog's immune system, so minimize it by adhering to a regular routine. Dogs thrive on it. Keep meal and play times consistent. Keep your dog's favorite toys nearby.
Obedience training is one of the best stress reducers. Knowing the rules to follow reassures your dog. Going over the rules, making your dog sit, heel and stay, also provide mental stimulation.
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