When should you bring your senior dog to the vet? Here are some signs to look for. Arthritis, kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, and other common age-related problems should be examined by a vet. In addition to discussing the above symptoms, your veterinarian may also discuss changes in your senior dog’s health. If you suspect any of these problems, schedule an appointment with your vet today. It’s a smart idea to bring your pet to the veterinarian at least twice a year.
Symptoms of arthritis in senior dogs
Among senior dogs, a few common symptoms are slowness to get up, limping, and pain in joints. Your dog may not express any pain, but their body language will tell you otherwise. They may begin to lick joints or show other signs of discomfort. The most common joint affected by arthritis is the hip. Your senior dog may also begin to whimper and lick its joints. Your dog may also be irritable, and may even become aggressive.
While there is currently no cure for arthritis in dogs, painkillers and anti-inflammatories can be used to manage pain and inflammation. This will improve mobility and help preserve the supporting muscle mass. Veterinary supplements can also be given to senior dogs to reduce stiffness and promote better joint health. In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid medications. Modern systemic medications, like glucosamine, are now available for dogs suffering from arthritis.
Symptoms of kidney disease
A veterinarian may suspect your dog is suffering from kidney disease by examining a sample of his or her urine. The vet will check for protein loss, underlying infections, and the buildup of toxins. If any of these conditions are present, your dog will need to see a veterinarian immediately. Here are the main symptoms of kidney disease in senior dogs:
Your dog may have anemia, which can require blood transfusions or human erythropoietin injections. These treatments are designed to boost the packed cell volume, the percentage of blood cells to total fluid in the blood. Some dogs may require hospitalization in the event of severe kidney failure. However, there are times when medications do not provide a cure for kidney failure. In these cases, a veterinarian may suggest other treatments such as dialysis or surgery.
Treatment options for chronic renal failure in dogs vary widely. The goal of treatment is to slow its progression and maximize your pet’s quality of life. Symptoms of kidney disease include anemia, abnormal blood pressure, electrolyte disturbances, fluid imbalances, and nausea. The good news is that treatments for canine kidney failure are readily available and relatively inexpensive. During the early stages, your dog may benefit from nutritional management and regular physical examinations.
Symptoms of diabetes
In addition to addressing the medical issue of diabetes in senior dogs, you should give your dog a proper diet to help prevent the condition. Senior blend dog food, prepared at home, can help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Dogs with diabetes may have difficulty chewing hard foods but can eat the right kinds of food made for people. A good diet plan will help your dog stay active, and insulin injections should be timed accordingly.
Your veterinarian will first run blood tests to diagnose diabetes in your dog. These tests will detect high levels of glucose, enzymes, and electrolytes. Urine tests are also important because they can show the simultaneous presence of glucose and ketones in your dog’s urine. These tests are especially important because kidney and bladder infections often accompany diabetes. Some dogs with diabetes may be candidates for surgery, while other dogs may be able to benefit from simple changes in diet and exercise.
Symptoms of heart disease
Senior dogs often exhibit no obvious signs of heart disease, but they should be examined by a veterinarian if you notice any of these common signs. In severe cases, heart failure will result. Symptoms of this condition include difficulty breathing, coughing, and weakness, especially after exertion. Fluid may build up in the heart, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently. The symptoms can be as mild or as severe as the severity of the disease.
The initial stages of heart disease in dogs aren’t usually treatable, but knowing the signs can help you make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis allows you to begin treatment sooner, and medications can help delay the clinical signs and make them less severe. Symptoms of heart disease in senior dogs can lead to sudden death, but they’re not always life-threatening. A quick trip to the vet will help you determine if your dog is suffering from heart disease, or at least understand the signs of it.
