As our pets grow older, they too feel the affects of aging. Dogs can show signs of aging as early as seven years old. Problems generally affect larger breeds earlier than smaller breeds. Smaller breeds tend to show signs of aging around 10 to 12 years of age. Its important to get an annual check up to see how he or she is doing.

Some Common problems that older dogs tend to face are joint and bone problems, an overall reduction in their metabolism, difficulty with their eyes and ears, liver and kidney dysfunctions, skin becomes thin and less pliable while the coat becomes mottled and patchy and problems with teeth and gums.

As you have heard me say a million times, it's important for your pet to keep their weight down. This is especially important in older dogs. Excess weight adds stress to weakening joints, causing more pain and deterioration.

As we face these challenges with our older pets, we want to do what is best for them and help them to be more comfortable. Roger and I are currently exploring other options besides pain killers for our senior, large-breed dog who is experiencing weakness in his back legs. We have just started a session of acupuncture to see if this will be of benefit to him.

Acupuncture can be and in some cases should be used in conjunction with other types of treatment. It can be used simultaneously with many traditional Western therapies. It is especially useful in bridging the gap between medicine and surgery. In addition, it is compatible with many non-traditional and holistic approaches to veterinary care such as homeopathy and chiropractic.

As your dog ages, it is also important to maintain his diet with a good quality protein to maintain muscle mass. Some Senior foods can be higher in grain than adult foods, which will cause increased insulin and inflammatory chemicals to be made. They are designed to be lower in fat and protein, with increased fiber.

Also with a good diet, keeping your pet exercised will benefit him. If your pet has hip and joint problems, check with your vet as to what type of exercise would be suitable for him. Don't forget mental stimulation. Keep them active within the family. Toss them a treat or better yet, hide them so they can seek them out. Teaching him a new trick can be both fun for yourself and your dog.

Supplements can be beneficial for your pets as well. As they get older, but are not yet showing signs of hip problems, having Glucosamine in their food can serve as a maintenance and possibly help prevent problems. Once your pet shows signs of joint and hip problems, the Glucosamine in the food will not be enough and you may want to supplement their diet. Other supplements that have shown to help is MSM, Hylauronic Acid, Vitamin C, Chondroitin Sulfate, Boswellia Serrata, and Yucca Schidigera.

We love our pets and want to live a long life without pain. Exercise your pets, feed them a good diet and keep their minds active.