Asuncion, IP Agency.- As the years go by, our beloved pets, just like humans, begin to show signs of aging. Knowing when and how to provide them with the proper care is essential to ensure their well-being at this stage of their lives. On this occasion, we spoke with Dr. Delia Enciso, a veterinary specialist, who offers us a complete guide on the care of elderly pets.
«The age at which a pet is considered elderly can vary depending on its breed and lifestyle. Generally, small breed pets tend to age faster than large breeds. However, a pet is considered to enter the geriatric stage between 8 and 10 years of age,» explains Dr. Enciso.
Regarding specific care for elderly pets, she said that it is essential to carry out regular checks on vital organs, such as the heart, liver and kidneys. “If the pet already has an underlying disease, these checks must be even more rigorous,” said the specialist.
As for food and nutrition, she explains that elderly pets need a balanced diet appropriate for their age. “Specific foods for the elderly help the joints and contain essential nutrients. It is important to choose quality products that support their nutritional needs,” recommends Dr. Enciso.
On the other hand, to maintain the health of an elderly pet, Dr. Enciso suggests performing regular checkups that include liver and kidney profiles, cardiac evaluations and blood counts.
Older pets are more prone to heart and joint disease. “The most common signs include increased panting and discomfort when standing up,” warns the veterinarian.
Even when they are older, pets still need to receive their annual vaccinations, such as the sextuple/heptuple and anti-rabies vaccines, as well as quarterly deworming. “These treatments are essential to prevent diseases,” emphasizes Dr. Enciso.
It’s normal for older pets to experience changes in behavior. “They may become calmer or, in some cases, a bit grumpy due to age-related joint pain or heart problems,” says the specialist.
Likewise, to identify if a pet is in pain, Dr. Enciso recommends observing its mood and behavior. “If the pet seems more agitated, has difficulty getting up or lying down, prefers to lie down instead of doing its routine, whines from time to time or has difficulty doing its business, it is likely that it is experiencing pain. In these cases, it is best to take it to the veterinarian for a proper evaluation,” she advises.
Proper care and early attention can significantly improve the quality of life of an aging pet, allowing them to enjoy their golden years in comfort and happiness.
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2024-07-11 20:17:45