Page 94 - Prevention (February 2020)

FAM I LY
1 3 at age 7, both vets say, as
Watch for
Signs of Pain
Pets can slow down as they
age for many reasons, includ-
ing arthritis, back pain, and
decreased muscle mass. Hesi-
tance to jump up, yelping when
moved, and foot dragging can point to
arthritis in dogs, explains Mary Gardner,
D.V.M., cofounder of Lap of Love, a
veterinarian network specializing in
pet hospice and euthanasia. Changes
in grooming behavior or not using the
litter box could mean a cat is hurting.
If yours shows these symptoms, your
vet may be able to prescribe anti-
inflammatory or pain-relief options.
Ease Aging
Anxiety
At least 50% of dogs over age
10 have some form of cog-
2nitive dysfunction, Gardner
says. It often shows up as panting and
pacing, especially at night. “They can
become restless and have a stressed
look on their faces,” she says. Pets
may also stare off into space or head-
butt walls, seemingly unaware of their
surroundings. Cats may meow or howl
at night too. Nicholas Dodman, D.V.M.,
cofounder of the Center for Canine
Behavior Studies, adds that if pets
become less social or active or appear
to forget their house training, that can
also point to cognitive issues. While
there’s no cure for pet dementia,
your vet can help find ways to reduce
your pet’s senility-related anxiety.
90 PREVENTION.COM • F E B RUARY 2020
Help Them
Stay Well Longer
Bring older pets for a checkup
at least twice a year starting
ing a disease or losing their vision
they’re more susceptible to develop-
or hearing. “There are subtle things
your vet can notice that may not be
as evident to you,” Gardner explains.
Meanwhile, resist the urge to “treat”
your senior pet to more generous food
portions. Gardner says that pets who
are even 10% overweight can suffer
from too much stress on their joints. If
your pet’s activity starts to slow down,
work with your vet to decrease his
caloric intake. But don’t stop playing
with him: Exercising with pets is
a major factor in keeping them
healthy as they age, Dodman says,
as is a strong bond with you.
Know When
It’s Time to
Say Goodbye
4 This is a tough decision
you don’t have to make
alone. Have a frank talk
with your vet about your
pet’s prognosis as well as your fam-
ily’s ability to keep her comfortable,
Gardner advises. Dodman also sug-
gests getting outside opinions from
trusted family members or friends
who may have a more objective view
of your pet. “The best piece of advice
I give is that it will always feel too
early until it is too late,” Gardner says.