Senior Dog Comfort & Care

Unfortunately, the aging process can take a toll on your special friend’s body, and one of the results is pain. Over 60% of dogs over 7 years old have arthritis and suffer from chronic discomfort. Almost 50% of dogs over 10 are likely to develop cancer, and certain forms of cancer can be painful. Additionally, while some common problems senior dogs face may not be painful themselves, their symptoms (chronic vomiting, diarrhea, oral ulcers, etc.) can cause pain.

Detecting pain in our seniors is not always easy. Observe your dog closely and look for subtle signs: restlessness, difficulty moving, sitting or lying down, not eating as much, etc. For more on how to assess pain, refer to Tip #100.

Pain management and modifying your dog’s environment and routine are critical to improving their quality of life. Your veterinarian will figure out the cause of the pain and recommend the best course of action.