It is crucial to remember that dogs, like all animals, are skilled in hiding signs of disease. It’s all about being in the wild, in which they had to defend their animals from danger by looking as strong as they could. Due to this, it can be hard to determine whether your dog is sick since it will naturally try to conceal the condition.
However, one year for a human is about the same as seven dog years, which means you can expect to notice some signs of aging in your dog much earlier than you would with humans. Many of these issues, like the gradual loss of hearing and vision and decreased activities, are normal and inevitable signs of a dog’s aging body.
Identifying a Sick Senior Pet
Specific things your dog may be doing may indicate an illness that could be treated or prevented from developing altogether if detected in time. The earlier your dog’s health issues are identified, the more excellent options you and your veterinarian can use to slow or stop the progression of the disease and treat the condition. Here are a few signs that your dog’s age may suffer from a health issue.
1. Physical Manifestations
The easily observed symptoms are usually the most straightforward to identify. The appearance of your senior dog could give clues as to whether or not your dog is suffering from an underlying illness. Here are some factors to look out for: dry discharge and swollen or smelly ears. If your dog is uncomfortable in its ears, as evidenced by pawing them and shaking their heads, it might suffer from an ear infection.
Other signs include eye discharge, a blurred appearance or changing of the color of the eyes, hair loss, poor appearance or another unhealthful fur; gums that appear pale, discolored, or white; skin lesions like sores or rashes. And the development of pus.
2. Behavioral Changes
Changes in behavior are a normal part of aging. Many senior dogs are, for example, slower, less active, or appear more settled in their routines. However, if your dog shows any behavior changes, it is best to consult veterinary geriatrics specialist.
There are several warning signs of behavior: sudden anger, fear of physical contact, excessive vocalization, confusion, and fearful reactions to being separated from someone you love, like fleeing or hiding.
3. Changes in Bathroom Habits
Typically, by the time dogs reach their old age, it has established a pattern for the time it has to go toilet. However, many illnesses are discovered through digestive problems.
Bathroom accidents, more frequent or less frequent urine and excretion, as well as an increased amount of effort when bowel movements, are all indications that your dog is suffering from urinary stress and bowel problems. Suppose you notice a sudden onset by your veterinarian. You can subject your pet to veterinary surgery San Jose to correct the disorder and give your pet a longer time to live.
4. Appetite Changes
If you have a senior dog, It is essential to feed it a high-quality diet designed for its needs. Contact a reputable facility like Burbank Pet Hospital if your dog suddenly stops eating or refuses to take food.
There’s a chance that he’s experiencing discomfort due to the teeth, which is a common problem for old-age dogs who often suffer from periodontal disease. There’s always the chance that something more serious could be inducing it to lose its appetite.
5. Gut Instinct
The only one who truly knows your dog because of your long-lasting relationship. Research has shown that pet owners depend upon their “gut” when making animal choices. Bring your dog’s senior to your veterinarian when you spot something wrong in them.
Don’t wait until you suspect that your pet is sick. Giving your dog the attention he requires to live in its old age begins by promptly identifying the problem.
