Common disease of senior dogs
Age alone is not a disease but as with people, age brings on health problems for a dog. Here are some of the most common problems that are seen in senior dogs. Some aging dogs develop an Alzheimer-like condition called canine cognitive dysfunction (CCDS), a form of dementia that affects the brain. Cancer in older dogs is being diagnosed more commonly. Among these are hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, nasal tumors, skin cancers, lymphoma and lymphosarcoma, and even brain tumors. Diseases of the endocrine system are seen more commonly in older dogs than younger dogs. Of these Hypothyroidism, Cushings disease, and Diabetes. Joints begin to weaken and deteriorate dogs age, leading to arthritis and painful mobility. Larger breed dogs and certain purebreds are prone to a condition called degenerative myelopathy affecting the spine and use of the hind limbs. This condition is often complicated by co-existing arthritis. Urinary incontinence is seen in both males and females but more often in females. Incontinence can be due to weakening of the sphincter muscles of the bladder from underlying hormonal imbalance or from the pet’s physical inability to get up and relieve themselves when needed.
EARLY INTERVENTION MATTERS
Senior dogs require more frequent checkups. A visit for the veterinarian every 6 months can help early detect and treat of many of the conditions in their early stages. Though many of these conditions are not curable, there are solutions to control them and prolong a senior dog’s quality of life. However, when these measures have reached their limitations and your dog’s quality of life is no longer suitable, Dr Lorraine Watson at DR 4 PETS provides mobile veterinary service for end-of-life care, in Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Camarillo and Ventura. Call our team today at (805) 494-339 or visit our website.
