Signs of your aging dog and how to be attentive as a pet owner

Every pet parent loves their pets so much that we all wish they would live forever but unfortunately, they age just like the rest of us. Sometimes as they age, your dog may need some special care and attention to live out more comfortable years to come. Your local Rockford-area veterinarian as listed below or one closest to your home can help you with the special needs of your aging pet.

Your dog will go through some changes as it ages, which is normal. All dogs age differently but the most common body changes may include:

• Vision loss that may result from lenticular sclerosis. Cataracts may also interfere with good eye sight
• Over the years a dog may lose its hearing as the hearing apparatus and nerve cells degenerate
• The aging dog has a lower metabolic rate and becomes less active
• Because of less activity and same amount of calories, older dogs begin to gain excess weight
• A dog’s immune system weakens with age, making it harder for a dog to ward off infections
• An older dog is more prone to dental disease. If bacteria from tooth decay or infected gums get into the bloodstream, it can affect and damage many organs of the dog with fatal results.

Keep up with regular medical care for your dog, especially through its senior years. For dogs with impaired vision, it is always good to keep the home in current condition so the dog has everything memorized without getting hurt. Provide senior food that is lower in fat and calories to avoid weight gain and keep up with some regular exercise like a daily walk or short game of fetch. At any age, physical fitness is still important for your pet.

If you are looking for wholesome, natural and homemade treats for your favorite canine best friend, Led foot’s Pet Bakery near the Rockford area is happy to meet your needs. Check out the website at Ledfoot Bakery. Contact Susan Weitzel at 815 784-6358, Ledfoot Bakery Contact.

If you are seeking Veterinary assistance in the Rockford area, you can check out one of these at - Rockford Vet Clinics, Bellwood Vet, Rockford Veterinarians, Perryville Veterinarian , Cat Veterinarians Specialists

For all your pets needs and accessories in the Rockford area, go to your local PETCO - 6305 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 229-0184 - Petco or your local PETSMART - 6320 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 397-7880 - Petsmart -Petland, (815) 332-4200 - Petland

For many of your pet essentials, visit your local Rockford-area CVS pharmacies. There are four convenient locations - 3134 11th Street, Rockford, IL 61109, (815)398-0048 - 110 S Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61108 - 3718 Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103, (815)877-9620 - 2454 S. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61108, (815)399-5421 - CVS Pharmacy

For the grooming needs of your Chihuahua in or near the Rockford area, you can contact Sue at pupelv7@comcast.net for further information.

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