Keeping your Senior Dog Active and Healthy!

Tomorrow Ginger will turn 13 and we are so blessed to have her in our lives for as long as we have.  I wanted to write a blog post on things that we have done to keep her as healthy as we can.  These are things that are within in our control, however, Cavaliers are predisposed to many health problems some of which she has,  but I will write a separate blog post discussing those.

• It’s important to keep senior dogs active as much as you can.  Daily walks are important not only to get their joints moving but for their sensory stimulation.  I like to take her on short walks multiple times a day then on very long ones.  It’s easy on her joints and muscles but she still gets her daily exercise.
• Try getting your dog to do some puzzles.  There are many treat dispensing toys on the market.  These will mentally stimulate your dog and reward them with a treat.  You can view my blog post on puzzles by clicking here.
• Keep your dog socially active.  One of the perks of boarding dogs is that Ginger gets to make new friends.  There are times she doesn’t want to be bothered and then there are times she will run and chase her buddies.  Interacting with other dogs is important!

• Take your dog to the Vet for their wellness check-up at least twice a year.  Senior wellness checkups are a must for older pets.  If there is a problem, your vet may be able to catch it early.
• Care for your dogs teeth.   As dogs become older their teeth maybe prone to infection and gum disease which can increase the risk of heart disease.  Because Ginger has a heart murmur, she gets her teeth cleaned once a year.  You can read more about the importance of dental cleaning by clicking here.
• Keep your dog well-groomed.  Just because your dog is a senior doesn’t mean you can’t take them to the groomers.  If not, just make sure that their nails are trimmed, ears are clean, and that their fur doesn’t become matted.  If you don’t want to take them to a groomer but want them washed, there are many mobile groomers that will come out to your home.
• Supplements can also be important.  If your dog has stiff and sore joints try giving them supplements.  Currently, Ginger takes Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength (DS) Plus MSM Soft Chews Joint Health Dog Supplement.  She’s been on it for a while so she is currently on a maintenance schedule.  I also give her a Taurine supplement to keep her heart healthy.
• A healthy diet is also very important.  Every dog is different and what works for one dog may not work for another.  Ginger is on a low-fat diet and most of her diet consists of cooked food.  Again, this may not work for all dogs so consult with your vet as to what would be the best diet for your senior dog.

Lastly, provide your dog with lots of love and attention.  Take them on special outings or spoil them at a day at the spa.   I don’t know how many years together we will have with Ginger, so every day I provide her with hugs and kisses and try to include her in on as much as I can.   Cherish the time that you have together!