Our Aging Pet

[Virdell1]

One day you are looking at your loyal canine and suddenly realize there's white around thier muzzle . He/she has grown to adulthood and is now becoming a senior. It isn't always easy to admit that your furry companion which you have had in your family for so long is now slowing down and may need extra care and attention.

I have a very sweet and loving short haired, red dachsund. She is 13 years old. I hadn't considered the notion of her aging until my veterinarian suggested that she may be overweight and should be put on a special "senior" pet food. I was flabbergasted at the thought of Rosie's years flying by so quickly.

I put Rosie on a dry dog food recommended by my vet and started taking her to the doggie park every day. Our first day at the park was a beautiful sunny day with mild temperatures. Rosie didn't seem to be impressed at first. She ran for a few yards then stopped and plopped down to rest. I made sure I had a bottle of water and a small bowl for her to drink out of so I offered her a drink. She drank a small amount then decided to continue getting familiar with the park at a slow pace. I noticed how round she was. I could see no hint of a waistline and since our Vet had informed me that she needed to lose 8 pounds I knew we would become very familiar with this park.

That day we made two laps and by the end of the second one Rosie had worked up a lather under her legs and on her chest. She was exhuasted. I carried her to my truck hoping she would cool off when I turned on the A/C. Thankfully it was a short drive home and I knew I could give her a nice bath to relax her.

After many trips to the park and weekly weigh-ins at the Vet, Rosie managed to shed the extra pounds. She is still on a diet of senior pet food. Before the visit to the Vet on that first day I would keep the food dish for Rosie full all of the time. Now she gets a scoop of food in the morning and a scoop in the evening. She gets a biscuit at noon.

We still visit the park regularly and now Rosie runs ahead of me and explores the paths and trails. She has a lot more energy and looks very healthy and happy. I pay attention to her weight and make sure she gets the exercise and diet for her ultimate health.

Be sure to start taking your dog out for walks when they are young so they keep muscle tone and stay within their weight limits. Daily outings also keep your pet happy and gives them the socializing they need.

Make sure to take your dog or cat to the vet on a regular basis for checkups and vaccinations. Be a responsible pet owner and your pet will be around for many years as a happy loving member of your family.

[paul]

Oh!! its interesting story .....