Pets Live Longer Too (Aging Pets)

 

 

 Pets are living longer too.  Thanks to advances in diet and medicine, in addition to our tender loving care, our pets are living longer and having better lives than ever before.  In the olden days family pets were pretty much disposable, but most of us today think of them as another family member.   Even so, I find it mind boggling that are veterinary specialists in categories that had heretofore only been heard of for humans.

 

In a “Pet Talk” article (The Oregonian, Tuesday, September 15, 2009) the author Jacques Von Lunen discusses the good news and the bad news in connection with this phenomena.  The good news is that pets live longer and we can enjoy their company as they grow old along with us.  The bad news is that pets now face age related illnesses similar to their human counterparts.

 

Veterinary medicine has made advances to meet the needs of their aging clientele.  Many of the maladies seen in older animals are now treatable if detected early.    Lab tests, ultrasounds etc. can pinpoint problem areas, many of which can be treated with supplements, dietary changes and medicine. Special diets and medications can make a huge different.  Much progress had been made in cat and dog care, including good results with cancer treatments.

 

 

We know that old dogs are prone to arthritis but new treatments mean that they don’t have to be immobilized by pain.  Yes, fish oil, glucosamine and weight loss are being recommended for them too, plus there are pain medications on the market specifically for pets. The same is true for cats.  Smart seniors consider their pets changing physical needs as carefully as they do their own.  It isn’t a stretch to think that pets might benefits from some of the same adaptive principles that you are implementing for yourself. Think about stair steps to the bed or up to a window seat, a liter box with a low cut entrance or keeping their food, drink and other amenities on the same floor.  

 

We love our pets and do not think of them as disposable any more.  They play as important of role in our lives as we do in there’s. Pet people are willing to go the extra mile to give back some of the joy and comfort that they receive every day from their faithful companions. .  It isn’t surprising to learn that people are willing to spend more on food and care to keep their friends active and healthy.

 

 

 

Comments

[Janie Knetzer]

We have a 15 year old yellow lab and she is a cancer survivor. She is happy, energetic and enjoying her life.

Taking control of your dog's care is important and even more so if you have an older dog. Don't completely rely on your Veterinarian when it comes to your dog's health. Nutrition plays a large role in your dog's overall health. Avoid low quality dog foods completely.