I read one of the best articles in a long time on senior dogs today called Old Dog, Good Dog which talks about so much more than the health issues faced by older dogs…what I really liked about this piece was that it talks about a self-fulfilling prophecy that often happens. As owners we tend to change our behaviour towards our dogs as they get older and often times those changes take away many of things that keep our dogs young.
Certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lore Haug explained it best, ““A lot of old dogs get what I call the shrinking world’ syndrome. Their owners get in a rut with them; they start walking the dog less and they don’t train the dog or teach him tricks. The dog doesn’t get as much stimulation and enrichment maybe they stop taking the dog to the dog park and there’s a significant decline in mental and physical challenges.”
Could we be speeding up the aging process for our beloved four-legged family members? The thought of it makes me sad, but it also means that there is a lot that we can do as owners to slow down the effects of aging. In fact this is something I believe very strongly in. I get asked quite a bit why I am so passionate about the senior dog products we sell like dog strollers and it is because they can act as a mechanism for senior dogs who still need the mental stimulation of going on walks and it also allows for your dog to walk when they can and enjoy the ride when they need a break - bottom line is they still get to play, exercise and enjoy life.
The article teaches us that by understanding the effects of aging we can learn to adapt so the fun can continue. Getting old doesn’t mean taking things away - it really just means a new beginning
Ann-Marie Fleming is the Founder of www.DogQuality.com, a site focused on products that help older dogs enjoy life.
The Guinness Book of World Records claims “Chanel”, a 21 year dachshund owned by Denice and Karl Shaugnessey, became the oldest dog alive after a 28 year old beagle passed away in the spring of last year.
Despite having to wear special goggles for her cataract eyes and being limited to a strict diet Chanel is a very healthy and happy dog. I know that for any dog to live this long there has to be a lot of love between the owner and pet.
This is something that I feel should be promoted more when selling the idea of owning a pet. Not to sound like a financial advisor here but in order to maximize your investment you want to create an optimal environment in which it will prosper. I know in our family, in addition to proper exercise, diet, and regular trips to the vet, we have always shown a lot of love towards our pets and each one has gone on to live beyond their expected lifespan.
So while it may be an obvious statement it is still worth reiterating if for nothing else but to get your dog in the record books! Hahaha. Remember….health and happiness are intimately linked and best sustained in loving environments.
Come along as I show you the ins and outs of the Pet Gear AT3 all terrain dog stroller which is perfect for one or two dogs and ideal for older dogs that need some help to get around. This sturdy and versatile dog stroller allows you to ride smoothly on multiple types of terrains with its front wheel that locks in place for those rugged areas. For riding in the city I recommend letting the front wheel stay in swivel mode so you can easily take those corners.
Your senior dog will love this ride which gives them amazing visibility and space as they once again come on long walks with you. I love the freedom that a dog stroller gives you and as an owner of a senior dog I can tell you first hand that a dog stroller can give your dog his or her second wind in life. Let the adventure begin with this high quality and reliable product from Pet Gear.
Ann-Marie Fleming is the Founder of www.DogQuality.com, a site focused on products that help older dogs enjoy life.
I watched a touching video today where a family shared their memories of their two cocker spaniels. I felt moved by being able to share in these moments, but also saddened because it made me think about my own dogs and the heart break I still feel over the loss of Churchill my French Bulldog who left us last summer after 12 wonderful years. Inspired by the video I saw and swimming in my own memories, I decided to create my own tribute to honour Churchill and the love that he and Mackenzie (my Pug) shared.
This video shares with you some special moments I was fortunate to have had with my boys. It will never be the same without Churchill, but I feel comfort in knowing that his memories will carry on and I am able to share some of them with you in this video.
Mackenzie is the kind of Pug that takes time to smell the roses, someone who appreciates the early signs of spring, a ray of sun or the dewy grass. You can’t rush Mackenzie and you’ll often find him staring off into the sunset wondering how life made him the man he is today.
