I’ve been a pet parent for 25-plus years. In that time I have fostered over a dozen
dogs, and at one time had twelve of my own in my care. I’ve learned a tremendous amount since those
early days when it was all new to me. It’s
inevitable that during the span of our dog’s lives, there will be times they
will not feel well…maybe just having an off day (like people do), or succumb to
a number of maladies that can affect their quality and length of life. Realize
that some are avoidable with attentive care, and others happen regardless.
There are some basics.
Some may seem just ‘common sense’, and others bear repeating. Nothing wrong with simple reminders, many
that can make an overall difference over time.
It is unfortunate our ‘best friend’ has a short lifespan. Small dogs, depending on breed can live as
long as 20 years. Larger dogs, maybe
15. Those are guidelines, as each dog is
unique, and there are many factors that enter in, other than type and size of
dog. Nutrition, environment, vetting,
exercise and affection all play an important role.
I believe one of the best things you can do as a dog
mom/dad is to educate yourself, and be mindful of your dog’s behavior. Learn what ‘normal’ looks like, so when
something goes awry, you will realize something is off. This will be different
with each dog. It might be subtle, and
it may be very obvious. I’ve experienced both and many in between indicators. There are various issues you can deal with at
home, if you are comfortable and knowledgeable in regards to the matter. I have
learned so much in two and a half decades. I am blessed that I have a long-time
vet who knows me and my dogs, and I can place a call and he will call me back…has
saved many a trip to the vet. However,
don’t hesitate to take your dog if there is an urgent need.
With all of this said, let’s review some quick ‘Basics
101’ regarding doing all you can to keep on top of your dog’s health and
well-being. Always provide clean water for your dog. I give mine filtered water (from a PUR
filter), and they drink from stainless steel bowls, which I believe to be best.
Clean the bowls daily. Be mindful of
food and treats. Many times ‘people
treats’ can have an ill effect on a dog’s digestive tract. I have found over the years as my dog’s age,
they become intolerant of certain foods, specifically red meat (probably
because it’s rich). A simple diet may be
necessary, such as chicken or grain free products.
Dental
health is very important, as it has a
direct link to heart health. Tartar
build-up is bad for a dog, just like it is for people. I don’t over-vaccinate. This is a personal choice, one I came to
after probably a decade of yearly vaccinations.
I have done much research regarding this, and I am big on natural/herbal
care. Most shots are good for a very long period (definitely more than a year),
if not a lifetime. You can have a titer test done from your vet to determine
immunity. Heartworm is a concern, and I
have used the ‘western’ version of protection, but also use an herbal product with
one of my dogs.
Aging dogs also have joint issues and many develop
cataracts. I have found it is not
uncommon for dogs to develop a form of dementia. There are many very good supplements for
joint issues that contain chondroitin, Glucosamine and MSM. I have used them with success for several of
my dogs. I have dealt with kidney disease, congestive heart failure, collapsing
trachea, anal gland issues, corneal ulcers, vestibular disease, and numerous
other ailments. There are dogs that develop cancer, diabetes and many other
issues that people have.
Exercise is a necessary component to a healthy dog. Take into consideration the age and health of
the dog to determine what type of exercise, intensity and length is
appropriate. For a smaller dog, a romp
in a fenced yard may be all that is needed. For a young dog, a long walk or
even a run would be best to release all that pent-up energy. Stress and anxiety
can wreak havoc on your dog as well. Be mindful of loud noises, from music, to
fireworks, to storms, small children, and even people talking loudly. If you
find this to be problematic, talk to your veterinarian to find a workable
option. I’m an ‘older’ dog mom, so my
dogs are blessed to have a quiet, smoke-free, child-free home.
Last, but certainly not least…LOVE! Every person wants to be loved by someone. Every dog wants that too! A massage, talking
sweet, cuddling. Don’t ignore your
dog. As I mentioned earlier, they aren’t
around a long time. My Maltese died when she was almost 18. I had her from 8 weeks and 3 days old. The
years went so fast! Do things together…they are a furry ‘child’, and require nurturing.
Remember, you have your job, your friends, your entertainment…all they have is
YOU! I just recently adopted a new rescue dog (after losing two this year), and
I made the statement on social media there are three things I want for her (and
I’ve always provided this for all my dogs)…I want her to feel loved, to feel safe
and to be spoiled! You can’t go wrong with that!
