Older Dogs - Keeping it Golden: Part 2

one junior, one elder

Older Dogs - a Lifetime of Love

Part I

Going Gently

We all get old and must be allowed to do so. We need not go gently into that good night, perhaps, but we must acknowledge and support the natural changes which the body, and sometimes the mind, go through during the aging process. Your dog depends on you, so don't deny the aging process and don't fear it. Accept that aging is a natural part of the life cycle and embrace the opportunity to keep your dog happy, comfortable and safe. Stop and smell the roses with your senior and realize this is a very special time for you both. The dog that was once so independent in the field, or that enjoyed winding itself up to a nonsensical pitch in its youth, now begins to follow us. The dog that was impatient to get off the grooming mat and go chase the fence, now snores happily under your hand. The dog that used to be more interested in sniffing a newcomer than in getting back in the car now watches your eyes, not anxiously, but as if to say, "I am here. I am yours." 

It takes a little more time, a little more patience, a little keener observation to keep a senior dog up and running. Despite the slower pace, longer naps, and snoring, the hours we spend with an aging, lifelong companion are some of the sweetest to hold onto. Remember what he was, but love what he has become as well. 

I always like to think that, "as I do for others, so others shall do for me" - not in a selfish way but, rather, in a karmic way. When I am with my old dog, a hand on its shoulder or a wet muzzle on my knee, and we look deep into each other's eyes we see - a quiet something. It seems as if soul were touching soul, and saying, "yes."

S.D.S.

As they age, our dogs begin to lose their sensory acuity. It is possible that what we perceive as "senility" in older dogs may actually be a set of behaviors resulting from that loss of sensory input together with a related disorientation. This sensory-loss disorientation is worsened by lack of direct stimulation. However, Sensory Deprivation Syndrome (SDS) in dogs can be relieved to some extent by utilizing direct manipulation via the handler or via handler and team (e.g., vet, acupuncturist, etc.)

(Note: the best results of direct manipulation compensation for SDS are achieved with properly managed dogs, i.e., those kept clean and properly nourished during their senior years - and in dogs with a foundation of "mannerly" behavior. 

SDS, complicated by organ failure or nervous behaviors is more challenging to influence than simple SDS, although good results may be achieved with commitment and patience on the part of the handler.)

Part II

See your Veterinarian Regularly

If you are lucky enough to have a long-lived breed or individual, adding some or all of the activities following to your daily interactions can help modulate or reverse age-related behaviors such as avoidance, standing still staring at walls or invisible boundaries, whining, and other responses we may perceive as "senility." Remember, your dog is not a human person and cannot think about its own loss of function. Your dog cannot engage in dynamic brain exercise, like puzzles, math, or learning a new skill on its own. On the other hand, your dog cannot sit around feeling sorry for itself as his hearing and eyesight fade.  Rather than you feeling sorry for him, let's find some things that you can do that should make him feel better.

Your veterinarian is going to be your best friend when you manage an old dog, so make sure your senior citizen sees his vet at least once a year to discuss canine geriatric issues and management. Spend some time and energy finding the best veterinarian for your own and your animal's needs, and build a relationship. The old question of "what do you call the student who graduates at the bottom of his medical school class? Answer: Doctor" applies to veterinarians as well. A great vet offers you information, honesty, great handling skills adaptive to individual animals, advice on food and maintenance, a sensible schedule of inoculations with an openness to discussion of titers and so forth. A great vet also displays natural compassion to the animals in their care along with real empathy for the human client.

Don't let problems that may cause unnecessary suffering or even death sneak up on you because they have gone undetected. Questions to ask might include: how many times a year should the dog be seen and what blood tests are recommended to stay on top of any hidden problems; is there a medical protocol you could or should follow to deal with joint changes, hearing or visual loss? How do you keep your old friend safely active throughout old age? Are supplements or dietary changes recommended?

Note: Whether the techniques I talk about appeal to you or work for you as they work for me, I always try to offer advice that cannot harm the handler or the dog, no matter the level of experience. Whether you are following my advice, or something from a book, friend or breeder, if you have any doubts or concerns, please run any questions by your veterinarian or personal dog trainer first.