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CANINE GERIATRICS

Most pet owners fail to realize that pets age more rapidly than humans, and the gradual onset of old age problems in a previously healthy pet may be both unexpected and distressing. The object of health care of older pets is to make them feel better, and have the longest productive, useful life possible.

We can NOT cure them-there is NO CURE for OLD AGE!!

As our pets age, stress upon vital internal organs is likely to become more serious. Vitamin requirements generally increase, and nutritional needs differ greatly from those of younger animals. Sources of chronic infection, such as tooth and gum disease, can adversely affect internal organs and contribute to failing health.

Aging also increases the risk of arthritis, disc disease, and other skeletal problems. Many of these problems are readily detectable and can be controlled, if diagnosed early, and treated properly.

Major Health Recommendations For Dogs Over 6 Years Of Age Include:

1. Annual Physical Examinations are the cornerstone of early disease diagnosis.

2. Annual Vaccinations For: Distemper, Hepatitis, Lepto, Parvovirus, Corona Virus, Rabies, and Bordetella.

3. Fecal Examination every six months for internal parasites is recommended.

4. Give Heartworm Preventive all year long and have BLOOD CHECKED once each year for the presence of Heartworms.

5. Complete Geriatric Health Evaluations should be started at 6-8 years of age consisting of:

(a) Complete Blood Count
(b) Blood Chemistry Profiles for liver and kidney function
(c) Urinalysis for early signs of diabetes and kidney degeneration
(d) Senior At Seven wellness testing with Antech, see phamphlet

6. Check Teeth for need of Dental Hygiene every six months.

(a) Tartar on teeth leads to kidney and heart valve infections. Keeping teeth clean can add 2 years to the pet's life.
(b) Tartar also works up between the tooth and gum causing the tooth to loosen.
(c) Treat teeth and gums with our recommended pet dentifrice DAILY!

7. Spay or Neuter (at an early age).

8. Encourage exercise.

9. Feed a HIGH QUALITY balanced diet.

(a) Cheap foods utilize cheap sources of protein which damage liver and kidneys.
(b) Wet food to increase water consumption.
(c) Premium foods are worth the extra cost.
(d) Special diets can be used to promote better health after (early) indications of kidney or liver damage.
(e) Restrict salt as much as practical.

10. Prevent Obesity.

11. Vitamin and Trace Mineral Supplements.

(a) Older dogs require four times as much: Thiamin, Choline, and Zinc.
(b) Zinc is very important for muscle function.
(c) Even though commercial foods contain Zinc, the Zinc is often not absorbed because of high calcium levels which impair Zinc absorption.
(d) Fatty Acid and Zinc Supplements improve the hair coat.(3V CAPSULES, EFA-Z)

12. Routine shampooing for proper skin and hair coat care.(Davis Oatmeal, Mycodex)