As your dog ages, he or she becomes increasingly susceptible to disease and illness. It is a fact of life that as the body ages it becomes less able to fight off infections and disease. You can increase the odds of keeping your dog healthy as he advances into his senior years by making sure to feed him a proper diet, by seeing to it that he gets regular exercise and by being diligent in taking him in for regular checkups at your local animal clinic in Lenexa KS. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends veterinary exams two times per year, and this is especially important as your dog enters the golden years of his life.
One of the benefits of regular visits for your dog to the veterinary clinic is the ability to detect and treat just as they start. Another benefit is establishing a baseline for your dog during an examination. Tests results from an exam done while your dog is healthy will establish the bar from which future tests can be compared. This will enable your animal clinic in Lenexa KS to better diagnose and treat your dog when he shows signs of being sick or injured. Common ailments that affect senior dogs include diabetes, arthritis and obesity.
Diabetes can come from any number of sources. A virus can strike. Inflammation of the pancreas can occur. A disease known as hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushings disease, can cause it. Even long term use of prescribed medications or steroids can cause diabetes. The biggest factor, however, is diet. Making sure your senior dog gets the right types of carbohydrates and proteins and the right quantities of these foods will have the most positive effect on his ability to fight off diabetes.
Joint problems can make the quality of life for a senior dog very poor. Arthritis and hip dysplasia can rob your pet of the ability to run or walk or even lie down. Gentle walking and, if possible, swimming are great ways to fend off these ailments. Taking a supplement as well is recommended and you can get samples at your local animal clinic in Lenexa KS.
Just as the phenomenon of the dramatic increase in obesity cases among humans is, so it is with dogs. The causes from being obese have become the number one health problem for dogs entering their senior years. It is so important to understand how much and what type of food is appropriate for your dog and to stick to a regimen of proper nutrition and daily exercise. Talking with your veterinarian at your animal hospital in Lenexa KS should be your first strategy to fight obesity.
Looking for animal clinic in Lenexa KS? Cherokee Animal Clinic is the best veterinary clinic provides pet wellness services to your pets. Visit them.
