What to Expect When Your Dog Turns 15

Believe it or not, senior dogs can be senile. Actually, the correct term for the condition is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. This mental decline begins gradually. At first, your four legged friend may seem disoriented. You may catch them going to the wrong door to get let outside. Family members may seem like strangers, or they may not remember tricks and commands. Other symptoms can include barking at nothing, restlessness, aimless wandering, and increased irritation. Since the odd behavior seems mild at first, it’s easy to chalk it up to ‘old age.’ But as the intensity increases over time, your pooch will likely need medical attention. Various medications can improve transmission of brain chemicals. A more natural approach is a brain healthy diet. Supplements like vitamins C and E, selenium, flavonoids, gingko biloba, and Omega-3 fatty acids can slow down the degenerative process. Your pooch could also benefit from extra patience and a healthy dose of love.

Unfurtunately, cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs. Since it’s hard to detect cancer in its early stages, it’s important you become familiar with your dog’s body. As you pet or brush them, feel for abnormal lumps or bumps. Excessive panting, prolonged sores, and bleeding from the mouth, ears, or nose can also be symptoms. Early detection is the super impawtant, so make an appointment if you notice any of these symptoms. Some of the most common forms of cancer in dogs are lymphoma, bone cancer, soft tissue cancer, oral melanoma, and breast cancer. Make sure your vet checks your dog’s mammary glands during their annual checkup. Just like humans, dogs fight cancer using chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or holistic therapy. Age and overall health should be considered when deciding on treatment. At the very least, your vet can help manage any pain your pal may be experiencing.

At this point in your doggo’s life, teaching them new tricks or commands may not be the best thing to do. Their bodies have slowed down, and chances are their minds aren’t very sharp. Rather than introducing anything new, let them spend their days hanging out by your side and lounging around the house. If they are still up for it, practice the tricks that are already in their repertoire. Any and all movement is great for their joints.