Maintaining mental and physical fitness into old age

Caring for dogs as they get older is both wonderful and heart breaking. Wonderful because they have been lucky enough to lead a full life and made old bones, but heart breaking to see previously energetic and sprightly companions struggle physically or emotionally with getting older. Dogs over the age of 7 years can be considered geriatric (Sanabria et al, 2013), and because of the advances in veterinary interventions and medicine, companion dogs are living far past their seventh year, with the average life expectancy spanning from 7 to 13 years (Lewis et al, 2018). Living longer carries the added risk of developing illnesses that are age-related – specifically diseases concerned with physical and mental health decline (Denenberg, 2020). Providing for an older dog's needs involves identification, diagnosis and monitoring of any health conditions, general mobility and wellbeing, along with adaptations to the environment and exercise plans (Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), 2022a). As dogs age, changes in their behaviour become an even more important indicator for potential illness and should be observed and monitored closely, alongside more regular veterinary visits, so that any health concerns are identified, diagnosed and treated early (Denenberg, 2020). Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a well-researched neurodegenerative condition that affects senior dogs, causing noise sensitivity (Mills et al, 2012), disorientation, altered interactions with people or other animals, sleep-wake cycle disturbances, house-soiling, and changes in activity level (Manteca, 2011). Being aware of the behavioural indicators of potential age-related illnesses (Table 1) can ensure early identification and diagnosis, meaning that any irreversible cognitive decline is prevented from worsening and current brain function can be safeguarded and protected to prevent or reduce the risk to quality of life associated with ageing (Pan, 2011). Diet, supplements and medication can alleviate and prevent the cognitive and mobility-related decline that dogs experience from age 8 onwards, and so proactive conversations with clients about these options should be a priority.