How to Slow the Aging Process of Your Dog

Dogs age more quickly than people, so start working to keep
your dog young when you adopt her. Paying close attention to
a few details may add years to her active life.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pet-Tabs Dog Vitamins
• Dental Kits (for Dogs)
• Dog Beds
• Dog Brushes
• Dog Dishes
• High-quality Dog Food

1. Get annual physical exams from a veterinarian and follow his advice on preventive health care measures. Preventing disease while maintaining optimum health is the first step toward a long, healthy life.

2. Spay or neuter your dog as soon as possible. Having puppies, especially repeated litters, is stressful and will contribute to premature aging.

3. Provide high-quality food designed for the life stage of your dog. Your dog's nutritional requirements will change throughout her life.

4. Use vitamin and mineral supplements, including antioxidants, as recommended by someone knowledgeable about this subject in pets.

5. Exercise your dog daily. Playing, running or swimming will help prevent obesity and keep her active well into old age.

6. Groom and bathe your dog regularly, paying particular attention to her ears and skin. Chronic infections and inflammation are stressful and promote aging.

7. Have your dog's teeth cleaned professionally. Good dental health is a key component of longevity.

8. Provide adequate shelter and bedding, especially during inclement weather. Sleeping on cold, hard surfaces such as concrete will promote joint disease, stiffness and aging.

9. Avoid subjecting your dog to environmental stresses such as secondhand smoke, noise, crowding or harassment by other animals.

10. Shower your dog with love and attention. Keeping her young at heart will promote a strong mental desire to stay active so she can join you in all activities.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a veterinarian with a special interest in aging who keeps abreast of advancements in this area of pet care.
• Research this subject on your own. Experts' understanding of the aging process is changing rapidly, and knowledge gained about humans is often applicable to animals.
• Mental fitness is important in delaying aging in dogs, just as in people, so challenge your dog with commands and have her do tricks even as she ages.
• Consult your veterinarian, and use caution and common sense, when tempted to try supplements or 'miracle cure' products that promise unrealistic results.
• Also consult your vet before offering your elderly dog pain medications. Some products that people consume safely ' such as ibuprofen ' are poisonous to dogs.

Who Can Help Sponsored

on 11/22/2005 For my aging Sheltie, we had the room to bring home a new puppy - a Rottie. He keeps her young by keeping her attentive and very active. I would suggest this to anyone.