Orev was the oldest dog an OSU vet said he had ever seen. I got him from Franklin County Dog shelter when he was already said to be 12 years old. I think someone at the shelter wanted to help him find a home, as the vet said after he was released he was more like 15. That’s not to say Orev may have aged prematurely due to his upbringing. He had a curved spine and needed to put on at least 15 pounds. He had physical displays of his former abuse, living all the years of his former life outside tied up on a chain. In fact, you could still see the steel-material transfer from his constraints on his now yellowed fur.
Orev was my first VERY old dog adoption, and he taught me so much. The most important lessons of course is that OLD DOGS ARE AWESOME and worth saving. But there is so much I wish I had known before I got him that I now know. It took me years to figure out! So, to hopefully benefit others who own or are adopting elderly pets, here are my top 10 things I wish I had known then but know now.
Orev, my oldest-ever Siberian Husky adopted from Franklin County Dog Shelter.
1. They hurt, even though they don’t show it. Just as we age and get aches and pains, so do dogs. But they don’t have the ability to tell us, and even take steps to conceal, their pain. Pay close attention to your pet and try to pick up on little cues they may not be feeling well (extra sleeping, favoring limbs, excessive panting, etc.). Talk to your vet about pain medicines as needed or on-going. I highly recommend CBD oil as well; it makes all the world of difference in mobility for some pets.
2. They will have warts and lumps. Old dogs have ALL KINDS of weird lumps. Most are benign but its best to get them checked out for a vet. Once all cleared as not an issue, learn to love these spots on your dog as it’s just part of their body now.
3. Dementia happens in dogs, too. It’s tough to watch a dog, and human, go through this part of life. Orev would get lost sometimes in corners and just need some extra help finding his way out. I found that neurological vitamin supplements helped him during this time. My only regret is that he didn’t get these vitamins soon. For that reason, I suggest everyone start their older pet on these supplements early. I can make a world of difference.
4. Joint support. Just like supplements for brain health, older pets need help with supporting their joints, too. Ask your vet about the best supplements, and look for the tons of options for products that support joint health online. In addition, to help your pet get up from the floor, go on walks, use stairs, consider harnesses that offer handles. These harnesses come in front support, rear, and both. I can personally say THEY ARE A LIFE SAVER.
5. Oils for skin. Just as humans age and their skin needs additional support, as dog’s age their skin and coat need some extra help to stay health, too. Fish oil is a great add-on to any food that helps gives your dog back his or her coat’s luster.
6. Slipping on hard floors. Older dogs have issues keeping their footing on hard surfaces. They have a variety of socks or shoes you can buy to help dog’s keep their footing. If your dog doesn’t like things on their feet, you can help by providing carpet baths to frequent spaces or consider changing the layout of your space to help limit the amount of hard spaces your dog must use. For stairs, consider adding carpet pads to prevent a potential fall for your dog.
7. Incontinence. Again, just like humans, as pets age, so do their organs, and their bladders are no exception! Your dog may try it’s hardest to make it outside at all times, but won’t always be able to make it. The key is understanding, working with your vet for potential medicine to help support bladder issues, and to possibly consider other homeopathic supplements as well. If medication cannot help, the use of belly bands and diapers can be a life saver in a variety of situations.
8. Every day food. Elderly dogs have sometimes have special dietary needs in their stage of life. Be sure to look at your everyday dog food to be sure it provides the extra nutrients and softness (many older dogs have and teeth and need softer food) your dog needs.
9. Sleeping pattern. Older dogs sometimes have trouble sleeping, in addition to having their sleep cycles out of sync. To naturally help your pet sleep, consider melatonin. It’s safe and effective for humans and dogs. Make sure to give 30 minutes prior to bedtime and check which dosage is best your pup
10. End of life. Sometimes pets need help crossing the rainbow bridge. We all know that going to the vet can be stressful and traumatic for pets. There are traveling vet available who can help you and your pet during this time with in home services. Local to Ohio, I recommend City Paws Home Health for their end-of-life and other wonderful veterinarian services.
Share your advice for elderly pet owners below!
-Monica