Pets Health Tips

Dogs 10-13 years old are already considered senior. Small breeds are believed to live longer than larger breeds. However, health problems depend on a dog’s class, size and activity level. Thus, the following problems your dogs might encounter include: Liver and kidney irregularities, disease in the joint and bones, Teeth and gum infection, slow metabolism, skin becomes thin and rigid, the coat turned speckled and erratic, primary senses gets dreary, cataracts and glaucoma can be developed and are also prone to arthritis.

Dogs are similar to people. As they reach old age, the mental faculty is mostly affected developing slow memory and changes in behavior. Some of these Behavioral changes may include as dogs reach old age: Sensitivity to noise, barking at no reasons, a violent behavior and anxiety. Physical changes also occur like the inability to heal infected areas fast and the weakening of the Kidney.

The following health signs to take note of and is worth a call to your veterinarian includes: vomiting or diarrhea that lasts for more than a day, weight changes, coughing, excessive panting, increased rigidity, difficulty climbing the stairs and jumping up, disorientation, change in appetite, difficulty swallowing or chewing, lumps, swellings or open sores, hair loss, seizures and changes in urination or stools.

To get rid of these ailments, keeping vaccinations up to date and a regular physical examination are needed. Other things to consider such as:

• Nutrition - Older dog?s nutritional needs are different from the younger ones. A diet should have lower calories and fat.
• Exercise - dogs need exercise to adjust to their changing lifestyles.
• Dietary Supplements - taking in mineral or vitamin supplement is needed to sustain your dog?s health.
• Dental -?keep teeth clean. Periodontal disease is one of the most common diseases of dogs.

?Lastly, keep a clean, active, comfortable and happy lifestyle for your dogs.

Grooming your dog is very important. Not only could you improve your pet?s overall appearance but you can also prevent many diseases by good grooming. Here then are several dog grooming tips that can help you out.

Bathing a dog should be done thoroughly. You can use a hose, a spray, or a pail and bucket of water for this. When hosing or spraying, keep the hose and spray close to the dog?s body. Never spray water directly to the dog?s face. It is best if warm water is used. Use shampoo that is good for your pet. When shampooing, start from tail towards the head. Rinsing should be done very thoroughly. Do not forget to dry your pet. You can use a towel or blow dryer for this.

Nail trimming is an integral part of all dog grooming tips. Doing this may require you to accustom your dog to the process. Nail trimming then is best started while your pet is still a puppy. Cutting the nails of your dog should be done properly. There is a part of a dog?s nails called the ?quick?, the part where the blood vessels and nerves are found. When cutting, make sure you cut above the quick.

Dogs are subject to many ear infections. Ear cleaning is best done twice a month. It can be done with a cotton ball moistened with warm water. Ear opening, canal, and flaps should be cleaned. Consult a veterinarian if infection signs appear- red/black/brown skin, bad odor, head shaking, and constant scratching.

To avoid a dog getting periodontal diseases and cavities, brush its teeth with pet toothpaste, twice a week. Use small and soft- bristled toothbrushes. Daily coat brushing is necessary. This removes dirt, spreads natural coat oils, and avoids tangles.

Practice these dog grooming tips to have your pet in stellar condition!