Special Pet Care Needs for Older Dogs

The Resource for Everything About Dogs

Boston Terrier Mug

Boston Terrier Treat Jar

Boston Terrier Leash Hook

Boston Terrier
Embroidered Canvas Tote Bag

Boston Terrier Mousepads
Price: 9.95

Boston Terrier Mousepads (American Flag)
Price: 9.95

Special Pet Care Needs for Older Dogs

by Kelly Marshall

The average lifespan for most dogs is between eight and sixteen years. Some breeds age expectancy is less while other breeds normally have a longer lifespan. Once your dog becomes older it is time to take some preventative steps in order for them remain healthy, happy and active. Have your vet examine your pet annually or more often, if necessary. Veterinarians understand the different breed types and are familiar with problems you may encounter with your pet. They watch for this and make you aware of what to look for, if your dog is acting a little different.

As in humans, keep your dogs weight within the proper or optimum range. An overweight dog has far more health problems such as joint problems, arthritis, diabetes and liver or kidney malfunctions. If your dog is too heavy, buy dog treats low in sugar and salt or purchase dog cookies especially made for overweight dogs, which are low in calories. Also, cut down on the amount of treats given to your pet. It is hard to resist their soulful eyes but always remember that it is for their own good. You do not want to kill your pet by thinking you are being kind to them. Feed your pet once a day or smaller amounts twice a day but remove the food if there is any left. If you have children, explain to them why they should not sneak food to the family pet.

Pre-soak or add water to the dog?s dry food if they have lost some teeth or have dental problems. Daily brushing helps prevent problems but always use toothpaste made specifically for pets, not humans. Start brushing your pet?s teeth when they are young, so they are used to the routine. Have their teeth examined annually by the vet, as they may need to have some pulled or professionally cleaned.

As with dogs of any age, make sure there is always fresh, cool water available. Some older dogs have problems getting to the water bowl so either take the water to them or place bowls of water in several different places so they do not have to go far for a drink.

If possible take your dog for a short walk daily. This helps the dog?s blood circulation and provides some new sights and smells to stimulate them and it gives you quality time to spend with your pet.

Unfortunately, dogs suffer from arthritis just like humans. Keep your dogs weight down and feed him food especially formulated for older dogs, as this does help. Talk to your vet because there is medication available that often makes your pet more comfortable and move easier. Supplements are available, but always check with your veterinarian before giving these to your dog.

Many great orthopedic dog beds are available. Some are made of memory foam and there are heated beds available. An older dog needs good support and warmth for their aging body. Dog beds are easies for your pet to get into than a sofa or your bed.

Looking after your senior pet and taking him to the vet regularly helps keep your dog healthy and happy longer.

The best designer dog beds are at Oh My Dog Supplies. Find big dog beds, high end pet furniture, luxury dog couches, and more.

Return to Index

12 MONTH Advantage Flea Control Blue: For Dogs Over 55lbs.
Advantage Blue kills fleas on dogs fast. Advantage kills 98% of fleas within 12 hours and continues to work for up to one month per application. It also breaks the flea life cycle by killing flea larvae. Advantage can be used on puppies as young as 7 weeks old. Also, it is safe for dogs that are pregnant or nursing. Advantage is water-resistant, so it kills fleas even after shampooing and exposure to rain. Advantage is applied between the shoulder blades on dogs. Effective Flea Control . . . No Prescription Required! Guaranteed US EPA approved. Contains imidacloprid, the fastest flea preventive, which works within 12 hours Long-lasting Over-The-Counter formula keeps working for up to 4 weeks Easy-squeeze tube for easy application. Water-resistant formula stays strong through baths and rain

3 MONTH Frontline PLUS Orange for Dogs 0-22 lbs
Frontline Plus provides your dog with the most complete spot-on flea and tick protection available. In addition to killing 98-100% of adult fleas on your dog within 24 hours, Frontline Plus contains a special ingredient that kills flea eggs and larvae, too, and keeps all stages of fleas from developing. By effectively stopping the development of new fleas, Frontline Plus completely breaks the flea life cycle. And, Frontline Plus kills all stages of 4 major ticks including those that may transmit Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It's completely waterproof. Effective Flea & Tick Control . . . No Prescription Required! Guaranteed US EPA approved. Over-The-Counter topical kills fleas & ticks in under 48 hours Protect against Lyme Disease! Easy to apply monthly preventive Contains (S)-methoprene, effective for halting immature stages of fleas

3V Caps Skin Formula for Med/Large Breeds (60 caps)
3V Caps by DVM Pharmaceuticals is a concentrated dietary supplement which is beneficial for the maintenance of a healthy skin coat in dogs and cats. It contains fish oil as a source of Omega-3 fatty acids plus vitamins A, D, and E. The dosage is 1-2 capsules daily for pets 30-60 lbs. Guaranteed Analysis (per capsule): Crude Protein no less than 7% Crude Fat no less than 90% Crude Fiber not more than 1% Moisture not more than 2% Vitamin E 75 IU Vitamin A 1250 IU Vitamin D 125 IU Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) 180 mg Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 120 mg Ingredients: Fish Oil, Safflower Oil, Borage Seed Oil, dl-alpha-Tocopheryl, Cod Liver Oil, Acetate (Vitamin E), Gelatin, Water, Glycerin.

6 MONTH Advantage Flea Control Blue: For Dogs Over 55 lbs.
Advantage Blue kills fleas on dogs fast. Advantage kills 98% of fleas within 12 hours and continues to work for up to one month per application. It also breaks the flea life cycle by killing flea larvae. Advantage can be used on puppies as young as 7 weeks old. Also, it is safe for dogs that are pregnant or nursing. Advantage is water-resistant, so it kills fleas even after shampooing and exposure to rain. Advantage is applied between the shoulder blades on dogs. Effective Flea Control . . . No Prescription Required! Guaranteed US EPA approved. Contains imidacloprid, the fastest flea preventive, which works within 12 hours Long-lasting Over-The-Counter formula keeps working for up to 4 weeks Easy-squeeze tube for easy application. Water-resistant formula stays strong through baths and rain

6 MONTH Frontline Top Spot for Cats and Kittens
Frontline Top Spot for cats and kittens provides flea and tick protection for at least one month. It is applied topically and each packet has 6 applications providing 6 months of protection. Effective Flea & Tick Control . . . No Prescription Required! Guaranteed US EPA approved. Over-The-Counter topical kills fleas & ticks in under 48 hours Protect against Lyme Disease!

Cannot find it here? Search the internet with the power of Google:

Enter your search terms Submit search form

Web www.boston-terrier.com