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November is National Senior Pet Month, a month dedicated to celebrating our older furry friends. Like puppies, older dogs have unique needs and nutritional requirements that will help ensure their optimal health.

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Seeing your veterinarian is the best way to care for your baby. pet’s individual needsBut there are still some general rules that can promote longevity. Dr. We asked Suzee Camilleri DMV, DVSc, to share her best advice on caring for senior pups and ensuring they stay happy and healthy for years to come.

Dr. Q&A with Suzee Camilleri

Question: When are dogs considered old?

A: A dog is generally considered old at around seven or eight years of age, but this depends on the breed and size; Larger breeds generally age faster than smaller ones. What counts as a “senior” dog is influenced by the dog’s individual genetics and overall health. Historically, mixed-breed dogs tend to live longer than purebreds due to greater genetic diversity, which can reduce the risk of inherited diseases.

There is no single “longevity gene”; instead, various genetic pathways combined with good care and nutrition will significantly impact a dog’s lifespan. Ongoing research into aging and genetics in dogs continues to uncover ways to extend their healthy years.

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Q: What are the best foods and supplements for a senior dog?

A: I always recommend staying away from processed foods. To maintain muscle mass without overloading the digestive systems, choose lean, high-quality protein and easily digestible proteins such as chicken, turkey or beef. Slow cooked meats It is beneficial for older dogs because it is easier to digest than raw or heavily processed foods. In my experience, the best quality pet foods use locally sourced meats from Canadian farms.

Gently cooking high-quality meat at low temperatures reduces the risk of harmful bacteria while preserving the nutritional value of the meat; This is especially important for older dogs with weakened immune systems. This method also makes proteins more bioavailable, helping older pets absorb essential nutrients more efficiently. Slowly cooked meats also tend to be more tender, making them easier for older dogs to chew and handle, especially if they have dental problems.

Research is emerging that some supplements, such as MCT, may help slow cognitive decline in dogs. coconut oilAnd L-carnitineIt helps with mental acuity as well as metabolism. However, do not give any of these to your dog without consulting your veterinarian.

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For senior dogs glucosamine and chondroitin fish or flaxseed oil reduces inflammation and supports joint health while promoting optimal coat formation. Fiber-rich foods like pumpkin aid digestion, and the antioxidants in blueberries boost immunity. probiotics It helps intestinal health and balanced calcium and phosphorus strengthen bones. Be sure to read labels and consult your veterinarian to ensure correct amounts.

Also make sure your older dog is well hydrated. They tend to drink less water, so encouraging more water and moist foods, or even giving bone broth as a treat, can help them stay well hydrated.

Q: Are there foods or ingredients that would interfere with feeding older pets?

A: High-fat, processed foods can lead to weight gain, heart problems, or digestive problems. This includes highly processed treats. Also avoid super hard treats and toys, including bones of any kind, as puppy teeth will become more brittle as they age. Stick to easily digestible, nutrient-rich options. Since older dogs have weak immune systems, also avoid giving them raw eggs or meat.

Q: How can you help manage your elderly pet’s weight?

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A: Portion control It’s crucial to manage your senior pet’s weight. It’s important that they have the right mix of protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates while avoiding overfeeding. By adding fiber-rich ingredients like lean proteins and vegetables, you can help your dog feel fuller without adding extra calories. The good news is that you can add fresh ingredients to supplement their existing diet. healthy treatment between meals.

In the case of older dogs, regular exercise, even light activities, helps maintain a healthy weight. It’s also important to serve treats (be careful) as calories are added even to treats made with healthy ingredients. If your dog eats treats frequently, try removing some food from his food bowl to make sure he doesn’t consume too many calories in a day.

To help your senior pup stay healthy and active, consider adding these toys and treats to their daily routine:

Carose Interactive Dog Chew ToyAmazon, $12

Chuck! Sport 25M LauncherAmazon, $15

RERBIO Automatic Dog Ball LauncherAmazon, $105

Digital Kitchen ScaleAmazon$16

Dog Standards fresh food subscriptionDog Standards, starting at $96

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