Aging is just another stage in our dogs’ lives, not one that we look forward to but one where we can still enjoy and promote the best quality of life for our pets. The Average lifespan of a Wheaten is 12-15 years. So, how can we tell when they are senior? There are lots of physical signs we will notice such as cloudy looking eyes. Vision and hearing loss can result in your dog being easily startled. The use of body language and physical touch to communicate can be most valuable.
Slowing down or difficulty getting around may occur possibly due to arthritis. helping to keep our dogs moving will help keep them active for as long as possible. legs are super weak, a support and lifting harness/ sling can be quite helpful. Just like with us, If the dogs’ When using it, the dog can still walk and you can assist as needed, and this can also help them on stairs, getting into cars, etc.
Some Wheatens are prone to lumps and bumps. Always good to have your Vet check these out as they can be cancerous. Bad breath and Dental disease can be helped by brushing and dental treats. I am liking the CET Veggiedents right now, but they may be too hard for some senior dogs.
Changes in weight. With decreased activity you may need to decrease your dogs’ food intake. If my dog is hungry but it is not yet time to eat, I know he will eat veggies like green beans, carrots, and cauliflower. An older dog may not be able to chew well so these may need to be cooked and soft.
Some dogs develop incontinence in their upper years. This can be managed with wraps for boys and panties for girls. Also you could consider an indoor potty areas with pads and/or the fake grass stations they make now. But discuss any changes with your Vet to rule out physical causes for changes in elimination. One of my senior dogs forgot what door he was supposed to go out, so sometimes he would be standing at the wrong door and I had to put two and two together.
In addition to physical changes, you will see mental and behavioral changes. For one thing older dogs might seem a little grumpy. It’s important to check with your Vet if this might be due to a physical problem such as pain. Changes in Behavior may also be due to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. CCDS. Similar to Dementia, it can bring about many behavioral changes in your pet. Changes can include fear of familiar people and things, not sleeping through the night, forgetting commands, house soiling, anxiety, confusion, and disorientation.
With all this going on how can we help our dogs enjoy their golden years? Most important, keep in touch with your Vet to make sure none of these changes have an underlying medical cause. Routine labs can identify issues like anemia and kidney disease.
Changes around the house can help make things easier. I had to put throw rugs all over on the laminate for my Darby to keep her from slipping. There is also a product called Toe Grips you might want to try. Soft orthopedic bedding and Ramps can also be helpful.
Avoid stress like large noisy crowds with an older dog. Consult your Vet about providing Supplements such as fish oil and glucosamine for joints, probiotics for stomach issues, and CBD oils from a good source. Anti-Inflammatories and Pain Meds may also be appropriate to keep your dog comfy. There are medications that can reduce stress and you can try essential oils. Raised Dog bowls will be easier on your pet’s neck and digestion.
Stimulate your dogs’ brain with new sights, smells, and things to do such as food puzzles. massages, short walks, and maintaining a positive outlook will also help.
Having to make a decision regarding end of life is a dog owners’ greatest fear. If you just don’t know I would ask for a ‘quality of life’ evaluation with your Vet. Nothing beat professional guidance. With my girl the Vet told me to just come in when I felt it was time. And when we did, she looked at me and said, “I knew you would know”. That meant the world to me. No one knows your pet better than you. And when you look at them and can see that they are no longer enjoying life then you know. Your dog will tell you. Signs can be things like not wanting to move from one place to another and a lack of interest in drinking and eating. How much time you have left is not as important as how you spend that time. So don’t stress too much over your dog getting older. This is the time to continue to make wonderful memories together. Cuddles, Special treats like cheeseburgers and ice-cream, enjoying the sunset and just treasuring all the moments you still can spend with your senior dog.
by Susie Blackledge