5 HEALTH PROBLEMS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN AN OLDER DOG

Dogs age, just like us.

Their immune systems weaken over time and they need more care.

You probably do everything you can to ensure your dog has happy days despite their changing physical abilities. You consult your veterinarian when you feel your dog is physically or mentally weakened and want them to live as long as possible in good conditions.

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You may be wondering what health issues can particularly affect older dogs.

Older dogs can develop a variety of health problems just like humans: joint and bone disease, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, cancer, kidney disease, and more.

Below is a list of the 5 most common health problems in aging dogs, along with some of the solutions available to you should you encounter them… because, like you, we want your pet to live as long and as healthy as possible.

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1. PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) precedes periodontal disease, which is a gum disease that can be harmful to your dog's overall health. If your dog has bad breath, it may be a sign of this oral condition. But it's not the only one: inflamed and bleeding gums, tartar buildup, and loose teeth.

It is important to take this disease seriously because gum disease can sometimes spread to other tissues, even the heart. There has been a proven link between gum disease and heart disease.

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Veterinary Treatment: Have a professional dental cleaning. Maintaining good oral hygiene by regularly brushing your dog's teeth and giving them daily dental treats will also strengthen their dental health, and therefore their overall long-term health.

Natural Solutions: Brush your dog's teeth regularly with a natural canine toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, as it contains foaming agents that are not intended to be swallowed. To manage inflamed and bleeding gums and prevent gum disease, you can use a homeopathic product to manage your dog's gingivitis . To help dissolve tartar or reduce the risk of tartar buildup, you can use a specially formulated tartar product . This will help maintain healthy gums.

2. CANCER

As with humans, the risk of cancer in dogs increases with age. It's a serious problem to consider, as it accounts for half of all dog deaths. Massage your pet regularly to check for unusual lumps on their body. Unusual bleeding (from the mouth, nose, or ears) or loss of appetite may also be symptoms.

You know that the chances of recovery are much higher when cancer is detected early. Be on the lookout for warning signs. You know your pet better than anyone.

Veterinary Treatment: Typically, when your dog has cancer, the veterinarian will recommend one or more treatment options: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery.

Natural Solution: A natural way to help support your pet fighting cancer is Piptoporus. It is a medicinal mushroom that contains anti-cancer properties. It can help manage many types of cancer alongside other treatments.

3. ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a common condition in older dogs. It causes pain and inflammation in one or more joints. If your dog starts avoiding stairs, has trouble jumping up onto the couch, or seems stiff when standing up, these are likely signs of arthritis.

If your dog is overweight, be aware that this puts additional stress on their joints, which can lead to the progression of arthritis in the long run. This is a good reason to keep your dog active and fit throughout their life!

Veterinary Treatment: Your veterinarian will determine which medication is right for your dog to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis.

Natural Solution: Some changes in diet and exercise may help, but they won't be enough. Learn about homeopathic products to support your pet with signs of arthritis and the benefits of Arnica, among others, to soothe joint pain and inflammation and strengthen your dog's cartilage.

4. DIABETES

Diabetes in dogs usually occurs at an older age. It can be caused by genetics, autoimmune disease, obesity, and more. Female and obese dogs are more prone to developing diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes include changes in appetite, weight loss, lethargy, chronic skin infections, cataract formation, blindness, and urinary tract infections.

Veterinary treatment: Treatment will depend on the severity of the diabetes. Treatment must be personalized, as each animal will react differently. Possible treatments may include spaying your dog, insulin injections, oral injections, or intensive hospital care for a few days to balance blood sugar levels.

Natural Solution: Diet is very important. A diet rich in fiber and low in fat will help normalize glucose levels. This homeopathic product Diabètanimo is also an excellent alternative to naturally support your pet fighting diabetes.

5. KIDNEY DISEASE

The risk of your dog developing kidney disease increases after the age of 7. The kidneys are essential for removing waste from the body and maintaining health.

If you notice the following symptoms, consult a specialist: increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of energy or signs of depression.

Veterinary Treatment: Since kidney failure is a progressive disease, the veterinarian will try to buy time to use what remains of the kidneys and make them as efficient as possible. This will be done through medication, diet, and fluid injections if necessary.

Natural Solution: A natural product to support your pet with kidney failure will help provide support during the pain and discomfort of the disease, manage kidney inflammation, and maintain optimal kidney function. It will help slow the deterioration of chronic kidney failure.

If your dog is older, be aware of the most common illnesses that can affect him. To help him feel his best at home, be sure to provide him with a calm and relaxed environment away from loud noises. Continue to exercise him according to his condition. Have fun with him at his own pace. Provide him with a healthy diet and a comfortable and safe resting place. We wish your dog the best and longest life possible!