The Geriatric Dog

By Carla Timmins
as published in Pet Times Monthly, May'96 Edition

"Never complain about growing old; for there are many who have been denied the privilege". I have been lucky to be involved with toy dogs. After all, the toy breeds have the longest life expectancy.

Besides there being a general slowing down in a toy's later years there are also a few diseases worth mentioning. Most old dogs will have some degree of deafness and blindness. All dogs do adjust to this. Deafness will usually manifest itself as disobedience and a disinclination to bark.

Blindness is a little harder to pick. I know many owners who think their old timer can see fairly well when in fact the vet has said the opposite. This shows how well dogs compensate for loss of vision.

Arthritis is another condition most old dogs suffer from. Aspirin will relieve pain on bad days. The dosage for toys is one eighth to one quarter tablet depending on size of dog. (Consult with your veterinarian before administering any medications to your pet.)

Heart failure may present at first with a deep cough. Any older dog with a cough should see the vet immediately. There are many drugs that can be used to make the animal more comfortable an extend it's life.

Many older dogs have decreased kidney function. Increased water drinking and urination are the first signs. Never restrict your dogs water! This will make them seriously ill. If an older spayed bitch leaks urine (especially in her sleep) she may have an estrogen deficiency. These old girls will often have a very soft coat. Estrogen replacement therapy is of great benefit. This is not a life long regime and is no burden for the owner.

There are several things an owner can do to make an elderly dog more comfortable. Keep your old dog slim. Excess weight is a burden to heart and kidneys. A multi-vitamin once a day is helpful. Make sure fresh water is available at all times. Provide more than one water bowl if your dog is not very active. Keep teeth clean! Above all else I find dental care contributes to longevity. If your old one has a very diseased mouth discuss using antibiotics with your vet before teeth cleaning. Keep to a routine. Feed 2 small meals every day at the same time of each day. Provide a heating pad in winter for arthritic dogs. Light exercise is a must if there is no heart disease. Don't forget to spend time with your old one. He loves you.

EUTHANSIA

When old age becomes a painful burden and not just a series of small discomforts it is time to say goodbye. Your vet will help you make this decision. Many choose to stay with their pet at this time. Others find they cannot. When my husband's dear old girl was euthanized, he could not stay. His Pickles had fought a brain tumor with much dignity. She was bred by me but picked him as her owner. When it was time for her to leave us I cradled her head and remembered that autumn day long ago when she was born. Had she been able to speak I think these words would have been her farewell to Graham:

Failing to fetch me at first, keep encouraged
Missing me one place, search another
I stop somewhere waiting for you. - Walt Whitman

Carla Timmins © 1996

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