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The aging dog

Dogs will lose certain bodily functions as they get older. Even though physically disabled, a dog that is still able to eat, eliminate, and enjoy you company may not have to be euthanized. The problems most often leading to premature euthanasia are deafness, loss of sight, the chronic pain of arthritis, and incontinence. There are ways of dealing with these problems!

A dog that is going deaf must be taught to sit, stay, or come by the use of visual signs or physical touching. If your dog is no longer responding to your spoken commands, teach him hand signs. If he is not in your visual line of sight, throw a bean bag just in front of him to get his visual attention. When he turns, give him a hand signal to come.

The older dog that is losing his sight will do quite well. The senses of hearing and smell will take over and , with a little help, he will remain a wonderful companion. You can help him avoid hazards by spraying an inexpensive perfume on upright objects like chair legs and door jambs. Once bumped into, and associating the odor, he will avoid these sprayed vertical objects later. Also, spray the perfume at least six inches in front of stairway steps to warn him to step up or down. It would be a good idea for every member of your family to wear a bracelet that jingles so that he will be able to identify and follow your movements.

Many incontinent problems can be corrected through medication or surgery. Check with your veterinarian. If he/she cannot help you, order pet diapers from your local pet store or dog magazine advertisement. Helping your dog with his incontinence is a little inconvenient but it is no reason for euthanizing your beloved companion.

There are other considerations for your aging pet. Try not to disturb his sleeping and resting times. Feed him a proper geriatric diet and keep his weight down. Give him attention, if he seeks it, but do not give him unsolicited sympathy attention. He will quickly learn to play this for all it is worth and, in turn, will become a pest. Do not subject him to strenuous exercise if he appears to be in pain afterwards.

You will know when it is time to consider euthanasia. Some veterinarians will come to your home and help you share the burden of this decision. Death, in this way, is quick and painless.