Old Dog
Is your dog getting old? Here is some information that will help you realize an old dog is just like an old person. Many changes occur in our best friends just like in humans. They get cataracts, go blind, and urinate in the house because they can’t control their bladder, arthritis, separation anxiety behavioral changes such as a decreased ability to cope with changes. They can’t help it as it is part of the life process.
Uncontrolled Urination: After being house trained for years, may start urinating in the house as they age. If this should occur, please take your dog to the veterinarian as there may be an underlying medical problem: Diabetes, bladder stones, colitis, inflammation of the prostate gland, anal sac disease and incontinence. These medical problems can be controlled. Don’t punish your older best friend. Be patient and understanding.
Separation Anxiety: Older dogs will start having separation anxiety when you leave the house to go to work. They will bark and sometimes destroy things in your home. If this happens, change the way you leave the house. Once you pick up your car keys, your dog knows you will be leaving. So, instead of grabbing your keys and leaving, grab your keys and then sit at the table or on the couch for a few minutes. Your dog will calm down and hopefully lay down. Leave for a short time, say for 10 seconds. If your dog stays calm, leave again for 30 seconds and so on until your dog stays calm.
When you leave, give your dog a new treat. ABusy Buddy
If you are going to be gone all day, say at work, hire a pet sitter or a neighbor to come in and check on your dog and take him for a walk. This may help in his urination problems as well.
Sometimes anti-anxiety medications can be given to your dog. Make sure you check with your veterinarian first.
Crate your dog. Some dogs feel more comfortable in crates.
Agression: Sometimes older dogs suddenly become aggressive. This may be caused because the dog is in pain from arthritis or another medical ailment. First take your dog to the veterinarian to make sure he is getting the correct medical treatment. You may have to purchase a muzzle when you take your dog outside. The last thing you want is to have your dog bite someone.
Loud Noises: Your dog may start to panic when he hears a loud noise such as fireworks or a thunder storm. This may be due to partial hearing loss. Be aware of what types of noises your dog can no longer tolerate. Comfort him, tell him it’s ok. You may also want to check with your veterinarian.
Sleep Pattern Changes: Just like in people, older dogs may not sleep all night like they used to. They pace around the house or start barking. Again, take your dog to the vet for a check up. It most probably can be a simple fix and medication would be needed.
Confusion and Disorientation: Your dog may get confused in his own back yard, or forget how to go from the kitchen to where you are in the living room. He may pace the house at night, stare into space, forget who people are. This is all part of old age. Not all dogs experience this. But when your best friend isn’t acting like his normal self, take him to your veterinarian.
Be patient and kind to your older best friend, reassure them. It’s not his fault. Don’t punish him for urinating in the house, or getting confused, or barking at night. He may not understand what is happening to them, but remember, they are still your best friend old or not. After all they would still love you, if the scenerio was switched and your were the old human.
One idea for your old dog is to change his diet. This is a great ebook on doing just that. The information is covers old dogs, weak, ill, overweight or underweight dogs
It is called Barf Basics for Beginners