Updates On 24th Sep 2014

Love is Ageless, and ensuring your Senior Pet’s health is essential!

As the person who knows your pet better than anyone else, you�re the best advocate for his/her health. It�s important to share any changes you�ve noticed, for that matter, with your veterinarian. The vet will then thoroughly check for any behavioural, social or physical changes, then recommend a course of preventive care where apt.

Do be on the alert for the subtle signs so you can act on these by taking these up with the vet:-

1. BEHAVIOURAL CHANGES

� No longer greets you at the door

� Seems disoriented or confused

� Acts �lost� in familiar surroundings

These could be signs of a brain-aging disorder called Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), which is similar to Alzheimer�s disease in people. As many as 73% of dogs over the age of 7 years experience signs of this condition, so it�s important to be on the lookout for this. Your veterinarian may recommend medication such as NOVIFIT� (NoviSAMe�) Tablets, a nutritional supplement proven to help improve the signs of CDS. Products with SAMe have also been used in dogs with liver disease.

� Panting

� Excessive vocalization

� Shaking or trembling

As your pet gets older, he may become more anxious in certain situations such as meeting new people or pets, going to unfamiliar places or hearing loud noises. This could be an indication of an anxiety disorder, and not just nervousness. Should the anxiety persist or become worse, your veterinarian may recommend a supplement called ANXITANE� (L-Theanine) Chewable Tablets to help calm and relax your pet.

2. SKIN PROBLEMS

� Scratching, licking and chewing

� Skin lesions

� Hot spots

� Dry, flaky skin

Skin-related issues are among the most common reasons for veterinary care. Hormonal changes, allergies, nutritional deficiencies and other medical conditions can show up in your older pet�s skin. The constant scratching and licking can be as miserable for you as for your pet. Talk with your veterinarian about the symptoms you�ve observed. The veterinarian will conduct a thorough check to properly diagnose the cause of the problem.

Treatments may include:

� Antihistamines

� Essential fatty acids

� Topical therapies including shampoos, conditioners, leave-on lotions, sprays, gels, flushes and skin lipid complex

� Medication to help with secondary infections (antibiotic) or excessive inflammation (corticosteroids)

3. TEETH AND GUM ISSUES

� Chronic bad breath

� Mouth sores

� Tartar and plaque

� Oral pain

� Decreased or increasingly finicky appetite

Your nose can give you a good sense of your pet�s general oral health because bad breath is one of the most common signs of periodontal disease � a condition that affects the vast majority of older pets. In addition to in-clinic procedures, your veterinarian may recommend a program with C.E.T.� Home Dental Care products to help prevent periodontal disease. Oral infections can become especially serious in older pets, and have been associated with problems of the heart, lungs and kidneys. There�s no substitute for a professional cleaning by your veterinarian, along with routine home dental care.

4. NUTRITION ISSUES

� Loss of appetite

� Higher vulnerability to infections

� Low energy and reduced activity

Nutrition is a vital component in your pet�s overall health. As they change, their nutritional needs can also change. They may experience metabolic changes that could diminish their body�s natural defenses, and their reduced activity level may reduce their energy requirements. It may be time for a diet specifically formulated for senior pets.

Hill’s� pet food for mature pets (aged 7 years and up) provides precisely balanced nutrition for a visible difference in your pet. It provides tested nutrition to restore youthful energy and contains clinically proven antioxidants to maintain overall health and a strong immune system. It is made with high quality ingredients, which are easy to digest, and contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for healthy joints and sustained mobility.

You can read more about these available at www.HillsPet.com.sg

Do not leave your senior pet’s health and wellbeing to chance!

Source: https://www.facebook.com/spcasingapore/photos/a.283797778154..

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SPCA Singapore

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA Singapore) is the first registered animal welfare organisation in Singapore. The two main objectives of SPCA Singapore are: to promote kindness to animals and birds, and to prevent cruelty to animals and birds.

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