Basic tips for keeping older pets healthy
As pets enter their aging years, it is the parents’ responsibility to make routine adjustments to match the changes in their bodies and immune systems that make them susceptible to health problems in old age.
Some noteworthy tips for ensuring the health and happiness of senior pets are:
Supplements
Pet supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and fish oil for dogs can be great additions to your dog’s diet. Not only do they help maintain dietary balance, but they also promote healthy digestive and immune systems that increase pets’ natural resistance to disease.
Fish oil for dogs contains eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids, two essential Omega-3 acids produced in limited amounts in dogs.
Research reveals that a deficiency of fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 in dogs can lead to severe diseases such as atopic dermatitis, autoimmune diseases and steatosis, as well as heart and kidney problems.
Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA act as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing the effects of inflammatory enzymes produced by body fat. Reducing inflammation prevents heart, kidney and skin inflammatory conditions, promoting a shiny and healthier coat while aiding weight loss in overweight dogs.
In fact, a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine revealed that overweight dogs fed calorie-restricted diets lost a significant amount of weight when fatty acids were added.
Fish oil for dogs has also been found to affect the growth and development of unborn puppies. Research has shown that mother dogs fed diets rich in marine Omega-3 acids gave birth to puppies with significantly improved vision.
Regular vet visits
Regular veterinary visits can greatly improve the early diagnosis and treatment of problems that may affect a dog’s health.
Age-related diseases, such as cognitive dysfunction or dementia, can have symptoms that are difficult to detect. The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical evaluation of the dog to detect early signs of potentially serious illnesses. In addition, regular checkups provide pet owners with an opportunity to consult with doctors about behavioral issues affecting senior pets.
Providing the best diet
Eating raw food or quality commercial food not only makes them feel better, but also reduces their susceptibility to illness and disease. Adding human foods like carrots and oats along with supplements like fish oil for dogs to meet pet nutritional requirements is a good option.
However, pet owners should be careful when making dietary changes to avoid stomach ailments and diarrhea.
It is therefore recommended to add a new food to the dog’s current diet and gradually increase the amount each week. Once the pet gets used to more variety, it can easily tolerate changes in diet.
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