The Senior Harley-Pet
by Lisa Ann Dzyban,
DVM, ACVIM Diplomate

Generally, a cat is considered senior over the age of fourteen years and a dog is considered senior over the age of twelve, but the latter varies considerably with the breed. (Giant breed dogs are senior over the age of five years.) With aging, the health needs of your pet change. If you are aware of this and are proactive in your pets health, your pets senior years should be happy, quality time for you both. The general recommendations for good health are similar for you and your dog or cat:

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• Eat right
• Get regular exercise
• Maintain an optimal body weight
• Get regular check-ups and dental care
• Enjoy loving relationships with friends and family.

Pet foods are one of the few things in life in which you actually get what you pay for. In other words, the cheapest pet food you can find is probably of sub-optimal quality and may be poorly digested by your pet or result in dull hair coats. Premium foods designed for the senior pet are generally a better choice, but your veterinarian is your best guide for your pet's particular dietary needs.

Avoid feeding table food, especially foods high in fat, such as steak, pork or gravy. The older pet may become very ill (pancreatitis or gastroenteritis) on even one high fat snack. This is true, even if he could eat such foods when he was young. If you feel a need to cook for your pet, choose low fat foods, such as white rice, cooked veggies or white meat chicken (never chicken skins, bones< or fat).

Exercise. Like you, the active senior Harley-Pet gets exercise daily (not just a weekend warrior). The exercise program should begin slow (five minute walks) and gradually progress with improving cardiovascular fitness (30 minute walks or swimming). If your pet has difficulty rising from a laying position, is reluctant to go up/down stairs, or is lame, consult your veterinarian. These may be signs of arthritis (DJD), but could also be signs of other conditions such as spinal disc disease, ligament tears, or tumors. These are all conditions that should be specifically evaluated by your veterinarian and cared for appropriately, to ensure that your pet is happy and comfortable. Even if your senior Harley-Pet "simply has arthritis," there are many care options to improve his quality of life including specialized arthritis medication, nutriceuticals such as chondroitin/glucosamine, physical therapy, acupuncture, or orthopedic dog beds.

Body weight. It has been stated that being overweight is the most common health problem for pets in the USA. This can be due to medical conditions (eg hypothyroidism, acromegaly, Cushing's disease) or the classic "too many calories, not enough exercise." Your veterinarian can help your pet with either of these situations. You will be amazed at how much more active your senior Harley-Pet will be when he loses five
pounds! Additionally, optimal body weight protects against joint and spinal injuries as well as diseases such as diabetes mellitus.

Health/Dental exams. Visits to the veterinarian are not just for vaccinations. They are "a must" for detecting problems such as heart murmurs, dental disease and tumors early, and then a proactive plan for your senior pets health can be made. You should monitor your senior pet carefully for signs such as increased thirst, coughing, lethargy or unexplained weight loss. If any of these signs should occur, seek veterinary care immediately because a serious health problem may be developing.

Loving Relationships. The relationship with you, his family, is the most important thing in the world to your senior Harley- Pet. Set aside time each day just for him. Although a body massage would be heavenly, your pet will appreciate a good old fashioned hug!!! But remember, as your senior Harley-Pet ages, love is only one element of good health. Be certain that diet, exercise, body weight and regular check-ups are adjusted for your senior pets changing needs.