Pets need people. People need pets. It is as simple as that. If you want to adopt a dog but are fearful
that you are too old to take care of one, put your fears at rest. Dear Abby (Herald, April 8, 2010) devoted an
entire column championing the idea of adopting older pets.
If you feel that a puppy is
a little too exhausting for you as a senior, opt for an older pet. In most states you can set up a trust and
name a caretaker for your pets if you fear that they will out-live you. Many Humane Societies have special discounts
for qualified seniors to adopt middle aged or older pets.
You may not have as many
energy issues as with a younger pet, but it is important that you are aware
that older pets have special needs too. Arthritis Today (May/June 2010)
featured a beautiful article by Hope Cristol called “My Doggie, Myself,” about
caring for dogs with osteoarthritis.
Dogs get osteoarthritis
too. If you are accustomed to achy stiff
joints yourself you know what Fido is going through. It is easy for you to take a trip to the
medicine cabinet but your dog can’t talk, so it is up to you to be especially
vigilant for signs of discomfort.
Osteoarthritis in both dogs
and people usually stem from age, excess weight, and trauma to a joint and/or
overuse injuries. There are more than
100 different types of arthritis found in humans but dogs mainly get OA (one in
five dogs will have it at some point).
The treatment tenets are pretty much the same as they are for
people: Weight management, moderate
exercise, NSAIDs, and glucosamine.
Special tips offered by the
author include:
- Special dog food with omega-3s
- Raised food and water bowls
- A warm water heating pad made for dogs
- Glucosamine is often recommended by vets and
people doctors too
- An orthopedic bed with an egg crate foam on the
top
- Lots of fluffy, padded bedding
Treat your older pets as
gently as you do yourself and be sure that all of you are taking those daily
walks. Walking helps keep weight under control
and it is good for easing aches and pains.
Taking care of older pets is an act of love and caring that will enrich
your life.
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