Is your canine companion aged seven or older? If so, you may have a furry retiree on your hands. This is actually a very special time of your pet’s life. Fido also somehow gets even cuter as he grows older, and he’ll be more interested in napping at your feet than chasing squirrels. You will need to make some adjustments to your pup’s care regimen as he gets older, though. A Georgetown, IN vet offers some insight on this below.

Exercise

Fido won’t be as energetic as he was as a puppy, but he’ll still need to stay active. For most aging dogs, a daily walk or two is sufficient. Enjoy these quiet moments with your furry best friend! Just take care not to overexert him.

Comfort

Comfort is definitely king when it comes to caring for older pets. Make sure Fido has a good, high-quality doggy bed!

Obesity

It’s very easy for senior pets to pack on extra pounds. Fido may look cute if he’s a bit chubby, but he’ll be both healthier and more comfortable staying at or near his ideal weight. Pay attention to portion sizes, and take it easy on the treats.

Veterinary Care

Fido may benefit from more frequent appointments, just so his health can be properly monitored. Just like people, older dogs are susceptible to various medical issues. Arthritis, for example, is very common in senior pups. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

Grooming/Temperature

Dogs in their golden years get cold more quickly in winter, and can overheat easily in summer. Keep up with your furry buddy’s grooming needs! Dead fur and dander interfere with his coat’s natural insulating properties. Claw trims and dental care are also crucial.

Mobility

You may notice your canine buddy having trouble climbing stairs, or getting in and out of the car. Pet ramps or stairs can help with this. A sling harness can also help, particularly with smaller breeds.

Love

Last but not least, make sure that Fido feels loved and secure. It may seem like only weeks or months have passed since your faithful pet was a bouncing, energetic puppy, but that’s not unusual. The time we have with our canine pals is truly precious, and often passes much too fast. Savor those tail wags and snoot boops!

As your local Georgetown, IN animal clinic, we are here to help! Contact us anytime!