Taking Care Of Aging Pets - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Sept, 2000

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates more than 40% of all pet owners have an animal that is seven or older. This means that nearly 45,000,000 pets may be exhibiting signs of aging, but many owners are unaware of what indications to look for. While senior status is generally defined by age, other variables include the animal's breed, size, and history of care. However, there are several key signs to look for in every aging pet:

* Changes in eating habits may indicate anything from loss of smell to dental problems.

* Differences in sleeping habits, such as excessive day sleeping, may indicate fatigue.

* Unresponsiveness to calling may indicate hearing loss.

* Seeming unfamiliar with surroundings may indicate diminished vision.

* Bad breath may indicate periodontal conditions.

* Joint stiffness or difficulty moving may be due to arthritis or other joint conditions.

* Increased frequency or amount of urination may indicate kidney ailments.

* Excessive panting or coughing may indicate heart or lung problems.

In addition to watching for signs of aging, steps that can be taken to maintain senior pets' health include cleaning teeth to prevent gum disease; grooming to keep skin and coat healthy; checking ears for odor produced by infection; a diet specially formulated for older pets; and participating in a senior wellness program for regular check-ups.