There are many symptoms to watch out for in your senior dog, including eye cloudiness, hair loss, joint pain, and declining eyesight. These signs can be easily treated, though some of them are more difficult to recognize. Lethargy and deteriorating eyesight are a few of the more common ones. If your dog starts showing any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian to determine if it is time to consider retirement.
Lethargy
Some causes of lethargy in dogs are more serious than aging. Dogs who experience chronic lethargy often show other symptoms of illness as well. Medications, diet changes, and surgery may be needed to alleviate the symptoms. If your dog suddenly loses his normal energy, see a vet. Your vet will likely recommend certain treatments to correct the cause of lethargy.
Some causes of lethargy in dogs include infections, kidney problems, or liver disease. Lethargy may also be a symptom of other diseases such as diabetes, Addison’s disease, or liver and kidney problems. If your dog suddenly loses his appetite or lacks energy, he could have a more serious condition such as cancer or kidney disease. A lethargy-causing disease should be diagnosed by a veterinarian right away.
Hair loss
There are many possible causes of hair loss in your dog, including hormonal imbalances. Hormonal abnormalities, such as Cushing’s disease and Addison’s disease, can cause hair loss. Your dog might exhibit symptoms of lethargy and gain weight, as well. If you notice your dog losing hair, be sure to see your vet. She can order lab tests, x-rays, and ultrasound imaging to determine what is causing the hair loss.
Aging dogs may develop bald spots. Hair loss in dogs can also occur due to a lack of normal hair follicle development. Some dogs are born with normal coats and may experience patchy hair loss, while others develop bald patches as they age. This is a normal part of aging. The cause of hair loss in your dog is not always clear. However, there are several common causes.
Joint pain
Whether you are a pet owner or not, joint pain in your dog is no laughing matter. Early signs of joint pain can help you recognize it and get your pet the appropriate treatment. Proper treatment can prevent joint pain from getting worse or even becoming a permanent condition. Below, vets in Greensboro, NC, discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment for joint pain in dogs. In addition, you’ll learn how to spot the early signs of joint pain in your dog and how to identify it.
The first step in detecting joint pain in your dog is to identify if it’s associated with another issue. Dogs are naturally active, and if your dog displays joint pain, he or she may continue to participate in activities. However, if you notice that the pain is more severe than usual, it’s time to seek medical attention. A vet will be able to rule out any other underlying conditions and offer you the best treatment for your dog.
Eyesight decline
As your dog ages, his eyesight will begin to deteriorate. Whether your dog has normal eyesight or vision problems, it is important to have it checked by a veterinarian. Aging dogs are prone to developing glaucoma, which can cause blindness. You should bring your dog to the vet every six to nine months to have his eyes examined. It is important to watch for any signs of vision problems, including changes in color or vision.
Some dogs can adjust to their sight loss by using other senses. You can help your dog cope with this situation by retraining him to stop when he comes across an obstacle. While it may take time for your dog to adjust to his new world without his eyesight, it can still lead a full and happy life. You should also make sure that your dog has a diet that contains lots of nutritious foods. Beta-carotene is good for the eyes because it helps produce Vitamin A. Lutein is also beneficial, as it protects the eyes from damage caused by the sun.
Cancer
Dogs are very vulnerable to cancer and the signs of aging. One of the most common types of canine cancer is melanoma, which affects the skin. Melanomas originate from the melanocytes, cells that produce the pigment that colors the skin. These tumors are usually non-painful, but they may spread to other parts of the body. Golden retrievers are particularly prone to the development of this cancer.
Treatment for cancer in dogs can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. These treatments vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Your veterinarian will advise you on the most effective course of treatment. For example, acupuncture can help manage pain and stimulate the appetite. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian if you are considering any alternative therapies, as they could conflict with the main course of treatment. If your dog has any the signs of cancer, you should visit your veterinarian as soon as possible to get the right diagnosis and treatment for your pet.
Liver failure
While liver problems in older dogs are often misdiagnosed as signs of old age, detecting the condition early is crucial to preventing long-term damage. Liver disease is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms overlap with common signs of aging. By understanding the most common symptoms of liver disease, owners can better prepare themselves and their dogs for the disease. Aside from the obvious loss of energy and vitality, older dogs may also lose muscle mass and appetite.
Treatment for liver failure depends on the underlying cause and the stage of the disease. For severe cases, special diets may be prescribed that provide specific nutrients needed by the liver. Supplements such as SAM-E and milk thistle can also help control liver disease symptoms. Depending on the extent of liver damage, surgery is an option. Eliminating fatty treats and high-fat diets from your dog’s diet may also help reduce the risk of liver failure.
