Senior Dog Health North Myrtle Beach

How Old Is a Senior Dog?

Did you know that large dogs are considered senior at around 5 or 6 years old, while small dogs hit senior status at 8? Although it might seem young, feeding your dog a nutritious diet, avoiding over-vaccination, and steering clear of toxic chemicals can significantly impact their health and longevity.

Senior Dog Nutrition: What to Feed Your Aging Pet

A Fresh Food Diet is Key

Fresh food diets, such as Volhard, help maintain hydration, lower blood pressure, and provide essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, quality proteins, enzymes, and antioxidants. Feeding a variety of proteins, vegetables, and fruits early on ensures your dog continues eating well into their senior years. Don’t wait for a crisis to figure out their preferences!

I don't recommend “senior dog food.” Instead, focus on high-quality, fresh food at every stage of life.

Special Dietary Needs for Senior Dogs

As dogs age, they may develop dental issues, making it harder to chew. This is particularly common in small breeds or those from less-than-ideal backgrounds. However, a moisture-rich, fresh food diet is not only easy to eat but also easy on their digestive system.

If your dog shows signs of food intolerance, adding probiotics and digestive enzymes can help. Some seniors may crave warm, cooked foods, especially in colder months, aligning with the 5 Element Theory in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).

Common Senior Dog Health Issues

Aging is not a disease, and growing old should not automatically mean declining health. I’m committed to helping your dog eat better, feel better, live longer, and even behave better!

If your senior dog shows signs of slowing down, changing behavior, or becoming finicky, don’t chalk it up to age. These may be signs that something is off, and a wellness plan can make a significant difference.

Proactive Senior Dog Health Tips

1. Monitor Their Health Regularly
   Annual exams and regular bloodwork can catch trends and identify health issues like diabetes, thyroid imbalances, or Cushing’s disease early.

2. Natural Remedies Can Help
   Adjustments to diet, along with natural supplements, essential oils, and homeopathy, can make a dramatic improvement in your dog's quality of life.

3. Water Intake is Crucial
   Dehydration is a common issue for senior dogs. Make sure they always have access to fresh water. Bone broth is an excellent addition to their meals to help with hydration.

Key Nutritional Considerations for Senior Dogs

• Protein: Muscle loss can occur as dogs age, so high-quality protein is essential unless your dog has kidney disease. For dogs with chronic kidney disease, low-phosphorus protein sources like chicken, turkey, and eggs are better choices.

• Fiber: Senior dogs often struggle with slowed digestion. Foods like broccoli, pumpkin, and bananas are excellent fiber sources that support digestive health.

• Fats: Fats support everything from energy levels to skin and coat health. Consider increasing healthy fats like Omega-3s and MCT oil as your dog ages. However, monitor fat intake based on their activity level to prevent weight gain.

• Chondroitin & Glucosamine: These supplements support joint health and mobility, reducing discomfort from arthritis and stimulating cartilage growth.

• Caloric Control: Adjust your dog’s caloric intake based on their activity levels. Too many calories can lead to obesity, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis, kidney disease, and cancer.

Toxin-Free Living for Senior Dogs

Keep your home and yard free of toxins. Avoid using harsh chemicals in shampoos, laundry detergents, and bug sprays. This reduces the burden on your dog’s liver and overall health.

Consider Their Vaccination Schedule
Reevaluate your dog’s vaccine needs as they age. I can guide you through a vaccine detox protocol if needed.

Keep Your Senior Dog Moving

A body in motion stays in motion. Even if your senior dog moves slowly, regular physical activity and fresh air are vital for their well-being. If needed, consider a stroller or wagon to keep them engaged in the world around them.

Supporting Cognitive Health in Senior Dogs

As dogs age, they may experience cognitive decline. Reducing inflammation, managing stress, and using supplements like Omega-3s can help keep their minds sharp. Ask me about other ways to support your senior dog’s cognitive health.

Ready to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy for Years to Come?

I offer personalized wellness reviews and consultations to help you customize food, supplements, and overall care for your senior dog. Whether you're in North Myrtle Beach or prefer an online consultation, I'm here to help. Together, we can ensure your senior dog enjoys many more healthy years.

Additional Resources

• Herbs for Senior Dogs

• Essential Oils for Senior Dogs

Interested in boarding your senior dog in North Myrtle Beach? Let's chat about your options! And don't forget—I'm available for online consultations, too.

Consultations for Senior Dog Care in North Myrtle Beach

Local to North Myrtle Beach? Let's get together to create a care plan for your senior dog, and while you're here, we can take some beautiful "senior photos" of your beloved companion. If you're not nearby, don't worry—I offer online consultations as well.

See More on Herbs for Senior Dogs & Essential Oils for Senior Dogs

Ask me about boarding your senior dog in North Myrtle Beach.

Consultations for Senior Dog Care North Myrtle Beach. Are you local to North Myrtle Beach, let’s get together and discuss your senior dog’s care plan. We can even take a few “senior photos”. Not near me — no worries we do online consultations too!

Senior Dog Care North Myrtle Beach

1. Senior Dog Nutrition North Myrtle Beach

2. Fresh Food Diet for Senior Dogs

3. Holistic Senior Dog Care

4. Natural Remedies for Senior Dog Health

5. Senior Dog Health Guide