Border Collie Complete ProfileKey Facts:
Size: Small - medium
Height: 46 - 53 cm (18 - 21 inches)
Weight: 16 - 22 kg (35 - 48 lb)
Life Span: 15 years
Grooming:\"read more\"
Now that youre dog has shown you so much love and
brought you so much joy throughout your many years
together, its time that you return the favor when the dog
reaches his elder years. Caring for an older dog is much like
caring for an elderly person. Knowing how to do that will
help comfort your dog immensely.
What's old for a dog?
The first thing that youve probably heard is the seven-year
rule (that your dog ages seven times faster than a human).
While this is pretty much accurate, some dogs (or breeds of
dogs) show signs of aging earlier than others. So, youre
going to have to know what signs to look for to ascertain
whether your dog has officially reached his golden years.
Senility is not just for humans.
If your dog is older than seven (human years), then hes
officially becoming older. While some dogs may show signs
far after seven, you may notice some of the following
characteristics once he reaches an older age. You may notice
that your dog has lost some of his housetraining skills. He
may soil or wet the area, especially through the night when
lying down. He may have trouble chewing food due to loose
teeth and sore gums. He may suffer from cataracts or even
partial or full blindness. He may gain weight more easily.
Weigh your dog every couple of months. If you notice large
lumps under his skin, its advised that you consult your
veterinarian, as this may be a sign of a possible tumor or
cancer. Your dog may even become grumpier.
While its impossible to cure all of the maladies that
accompany age, you can comfort your dog and make his
older life enjoyable.
Medication can help
There are many drugs out there that can help your dog.
While its not advised to give your pet too many
medications, there are some that can help if hes suffering
joint or hip pain. If your dog seems extra tired or sore one
day, go ahead and skip his daily exercise routine. If it last
more than a couple of days, talk with your vet. Install a
partial ramp over the steps to and from your house so that
your dog doesnt have to deal with the harsh incline on his
joints. Massage and rub your dogs muscles. Studies have
shown that physio- or hydrotherapy can be extremely
beneficial in your dogs elder years.
Grooming offers relief
Be sure to clip your older dogs nails as he probably doesnt
run about as much as when he was younger. The nails wont
naturally keep trimmed down, so youll have to be sure to
keep his nails under control. If you dont want to do it
yourself, veterinarians usually provide this service.
Your dog may become senile. While this is normal, some
cases are so severe that they are compared to Alzheimers.
There are dog drugs, like those given to human Alzheimers
patents that have proven effective.
Routines are welcome
Be sure that you keep your dog on a regular routine.
Exercise him daily. Control his weight. Buy high-quality
food and groom, pet and cuddle with your dog frequently.
Visit your vet at least once a year to screen for diseases. Buy
an orthopedic bed mat for your older dog.
Disabilities can occur
If your dog is blind or nearly there, you can make a home
solution of vinegar mixed with water to spray (about nose
high) onto door frames and sofas so he doesnt run into
them. Also, dont move furniture around. For deaf dogs, tell
everyone (especially children), not to approach your dog too
quickly. Be sure that the dog sees anyone coming towards
him.
Caring for an older dog can be just as hard as caring for a
puppy. Your dog will take kindly to the adaptations youve
made, which will make his golden years truly shine.
