It is crucial to remember that dogs, like all animals, are masters in hiding the signs of illness. This is about their days out in the wild, in which they had to defend against predators by trying to appear as strong as they could. Due to this, it may be hard to determine the signs that your dog is sick because it would naturally try to conceal its health condition.
However, one year for a human is approximately the same as seven dog years. Therefore, you should expect to observe some signs of aging in your dog’s companion much earlier than you would in a human. Many signs, such as the gradual loss of hearing and vision and decreased activity levels, are natural, unavoidable, and indicative of your dog’s aging body.
Identifying a Sick Senior Pet
What your dog could be doing may indicate a health problem that can be treated or prevented from developing if discovered early. The earlier your older dog’s health issues are identified, the more excellent options you and your vet have to stop disease progression and treat its illness. Here are several signs that your dog’s age may be suffering from an illness.
1. Physical Manifestations
Symptoms that are plain to see are typically the easiest to spot. The appearance of your senior dog could provide hints as to whether or if he’s suffering from an underlying condition. Here are some factors to look out for: dry discharge-filled, dry, or odorous ears. If your dog is unhappy with its ears, which is evident by pawing them or shaking its head, he might suffer from an ear infection.
Other signs include tears from eyes that are discharged, blurred appearance or shift in the color of your eyes, hair loss, poor appearance or any other signs of unhealthful fur; gums that are pale, discolored, or white; and skin lesions like sores and rashes. And the development of pus.
2. Behavioral Changes
Changes in behavior are a common occurrence of getting older. Many senior dogs tend to slow down, become less active, and even seem to be more settled on their own. If your pet shows any of the following behavioral changes, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian.
The following behaviors are indicators of troublesome behavior: sudden anger aversion to physical contact, excessive vocalizations, disorientation, and nervous reactions to being abruptly separated from someone you love or a loved one, like leaving or hiding.
An expert in veterinary surgery can also save your pet’s life. You can subject your pet to a surgical procedure to address the problem and cure the ailment.
3. Changes in Bathroom Habits
When an animal reaches its senior years, it has often established a pattern for when it is time to go to the potty. However, many illnesses quickly surface through digestive problems.
Inconvenient bathroom accidents, increased frequency or cessation of excretion and urination, and increased effort during bowel movements indicate that your dog might suffer from urinary stress and bowel problems. If you see a change in your pet’s toilet habits, It is recommended that you consult your veterinarian and visit their website.
4. Appetite Changes
If you have a senior dog, It is essential to feed it a high-quality diet made specifically for it. Get in touch with your veterinarian or a facility like Burbank Pet Hospital if it suddenly loses its appetite or refuses to consume food.
It may be experiencing discomfort because of its teeth. This is a common issue for older dogs who often suffer from periodontal disease. There’s always the chance that something else is making it lose its appetite.
5. Gut Instinct
You are the only one who knows your dog due to your long-lasting relationship. Studies have shown that pet owners depend on their “gut” when making animal decisions. Bring your dog’s senior pet to see your vet if you observe something is wrong there.
Don’t delay if you suspect your senior pet may be suffering. Giving your dog the attention required to enjoy its old age begins with a prompt diagnosis.
