Sunday, September 26, 2021

Nurturing Your Dog Throughout The Years

 

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!


No comments:

Post a Comment