Question:

What are some key things to be aware of as dogs age?

Answer:

As dogs age, it is increasingly important to have an annual physical examination performed by your veterinarian. This can usually be accomplished in conjunction with another annual routine procedure such as a vaccination or the heartworm blood test. The goal of this examination is early detection of minor problems before they become major ones. Your veterinarian at this time may suggest a blood screen (sometimes referred to as a “Senior Panel”) to detect changes in major organ function that a physical examination alone may not reveal. If you notice or feel any new lumps or bumps, you may not want to wait for this visit. The first thing I want to see when I do a physical examination is what the pet’s current weight is. If gaining weight, it may be time for a diet. Weight loss, on the other hand, can be a significant finding. I always document the weight in the medical record as sometimes we can all forget the specifics. Of course any change (an increase or decrease) in the appetite can be important to note. Sometimes in multiple dog households this may be difficult to determine though, so it’s a good idea to periodically watch your dog eat (and drink). Drinking increased amounts of water can be a tell-tale sign that things are not right as well. This consequently will result in an increased frequency of urination. So it is a good thing to periodically pay attention when your older dog goes out to “do his or her duty”. Changes in bowel function may be noticed at this time as well. It’s important to pay attention when your older dog is at play. A decrease in activity may be an early sign of arthritis. The veterinary profession has come a long way recently to help pets cope with pain. While your older dogs may “slow down” a little, a significant decrease in normal exercise tolerance, an increase in the rate of, or difficulty in breathing, or a cough can all be an indication that an older dog is experiencing heart problems. In the more elderly dog with more obvious signs of aging, (what I tongue-in-cheek call “Old Timer's Disease”, after Alzheimer’s Disease) is another situation that there are newer medications to help the older dog cope with increasing or advanced age. This “disease” is scientifically referred to as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and 50% of dogs over 10 years of age will show at least one sign of this condition. The primary sign is disorientation. Getting lost in familiar surroundings, trouble finding or standing on the wrong side of the door to go out, getting stuck in places, or not recognizing familiar people can all be indicative of this disorientation. Other signs may include trouble sleeping at night (while sleeping more during the day), decreased enthusiasm toward the family, shaking, staring, wandering, pacing or other compulsive behaviors and in general confusion or stress. When caught early, the quality of life of the older dog can be dramatically improved with medication. In closing, as you can see there are a number of small things to pay attention to in your older pet. These signs can be indicative of conditions if caught early and treated by your veterinarian can help pets bask in the glow of their senior years and live a long and happy life.

Dr. Revoir’s veterinary opinion should only be used as an educational guide and in no way should be substituted for licensed veterinary care. Your veterinarian should be consulted in all health matters involving your pet.