It’s difficult to admit that our pets are getting older, whether in canine or human years. As your dog gets older, he or she may have more problems like memory loss, hearing and vision problems, joint pain, allergies, and general inflammation.
No matter how old your dog is, you can take steps to keep these problems from happening instead of rushing to treat them with expensive prescription drugs after they happen. Changing your pet’s lifestyle cannot only keep them healthy in their golden years, but it can also help them live longer.
When Dogs Show Signs of Aging
Most dogs will begin to show signs of aging by the time they reach the age of 7 or 8, but some breeds have a shorter life expectancy than others. Smaller dogs live longer than larger breeds because their bodies are less stressed during their lifetime.
The best way to help your dog age gracefully is to make sure he stays active and that his environment is safe and comfortable. You should also be aware of certain health problems that tend to occur more often in older dogs, such as arthritis and cataracts.
A Healthy, Well-Balanced Diet for Dogs
Your dog’s capacity to metabolize foods in the same way decreases as they age. As your dog gets older, foods that may never have been an issue in the past, such as a specific type of treat, may cause an upset stomach.
As you get older, you may not be able to eat spicy meals without having heartburn, your dog may have trouble eating foods they used to enjoy in the same sense. Your dog is less likely to get diabetes, liver disease, kidney failure, and neurological problems if they eat a healthy, light diet.
Transition your dog to a milder diet to avoid food-induced inflammation. This is beneficial for dogs of all ages, but it is especially beneficial for those with allergies, inflammation, or gastrointestinal problems.
Change Your Dog’s Routine
Your dog’s old routine may be inflicting more wear and tear on their joints than you think as they grow older. While older dogs will still love long walks, taking frequent pauses and altering your route so that your dog walks on softer ground might help prevent future joint problems.
If your dog generally sleeps upstairs, moving their main sleeping place downstairs can help avoid stress on their aging joints by eliminating the need for them to run up and down.
Small modifications to your dog’s routine can help them feel more calm and comfortable, reducing the anxiety and tension that comes with the aging process; no longer being able to do what they were once able to do.
Because your dog will be less likely to want to change their daily routine as they become older, getting them into the habit of sleeping downstairs or taking different walks when they’re younger will help them relax later.
Herbal Supplements to Reduce the Impact of Aging
Herbal supplements can help with waste removal, renal function, and overall well-being. These are frequently found in the form of tinctures (which are administered orally), in pill form, or as a powder to sprinkle in their food.
Ginseng for Dogs
Siberian ginseng, which is known for boosting a dog’s immune system, can also help them cope with mental stress. As dogs get older, they may lose some of their ability to absorb nutrients, which can make them sleepy and less alert. Ginseng can increase appetite, aid in food absorption, and help manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Turmeric for Dogs
This natural remedy for arthritis can help reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the condition. It has also been shown to prevent dementia, ease allergies, improve heart and liver function, and promote positive mental health as an antioxidant (among other benefits). Turmeric can be incorporated into a dog’s food or blended with other natural ingredients.
Kelp for Dogs
Kelp, in combination with turmeric and ginseng, can aid in the prevention and treatment of thyroid problems in dogs. Kelp, which is high in iron, also aids in protecting the adrenal and pituitary glands, as well as the digestive system. It’s also thought to aid in the efficient pumping of the heart. Skin and coat health may also be improved with kelp.
CBD for Dogs
CBD derived from hemp plants can help pets with inflammation, joint pain, and cell communication by interacting with receptors in their bodies. CBD has also been shown to be effective in preventing tumors, shrinking malignant tumors, and managing allergies.
Furthermore, CBD is a neuroprotectant that works to not only manage but also prevent and reduce the number of seizures in dogs with epilepsy.
HEAL CBD for Dogs
HEAL is a proprietary full-spectrum CBD oil for dogs, designed to enhance your dog’s endocannabinoid system and address a variety of health conditions including pain and inflammation.
The advantages of this natural medication seem limitless, and it may be used to not only address but also prevent problems from arising in the first place. Hemp seed oil also has the ideal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which aids in overall well-being and promotes healthy skin and coat in your dog.
Keep in Mind
Keep in mind that each dog is unique and may react differently to various supplements. If you have any concerns, speak with your holistic veterinarian.
Read more:
Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol – PMC