Knowing When To Get Help

Posted on: 30 September 2015

Keeping your dog healthy as they age can be difficult if you are uncertain over what kind of changes you need to make in their care. Senior dogs typically exert less energy and are vulnerable to health risks that may not be present when they are younger, making it important to make some changes.

To avoid expensive trips to the vet clinic, look into how you can limit your visits and medical treatments with the right care.

Bring Your Dog in for Routine Wellness Checkups

Your veterinarian should be seen regularly for a number of reasons, ranging from checking for any signs of tumors to simply addressing their weight and any changes that need to be made for exercising or nutrition. Routine wellness exams are typically quite affordable and can help ensure that you will not be spending a lot of money on future care due to medical issues that have been missed.

Avoid Skipping Dental Work and Grooming Services

While you may be giving your senior dog dental treats and can handle bathing them on your own, you likely will not be able to do as thorough of a job than with professional help. Vet clinics typically offer dental cleaning and grooming, along with being able to exam your dog at the same time.

Consider if Pet Insurance is Worth the Cost

Surgery and other serious medical visits can be pricey, so it makes sense to look into ways to cut costs. Pet insurance may be a viable option for your dog if you frequently visit the vet and want to be sure that you will not be paying as much out-of-pocket for expensive treatments.

Make Proper Nutrition a Priority

The right food can make all the difference in the health of your senior dog, making it important to speak with your veterinarian about what kind of food your dog should be eating. Even more important than their age, the amount of exercise your dog does and the health they are in will make a big difference in what kind of food they should eat due to variations in protein, fiber, and carbohydrates they need.

Keep Up with Regular Walks and Exercise

While your senior dog may not have as much energy as they used to, it is still important to encourage them to exercise regularly. In order for your dog to stay in the best health, you will need to motivate them to get moving by taking them on walks and playing with them regularly.

Taking good care of your dog has some adjustments to consider as they age. Making some changes with the age of your dog in mind will help prevent you from needing to spend a lot of money and time at the vet (like those at Northside Emergency Pet Clinic) for preventive problems.