We love our oldies; old dogs have a special charm and we share with them a unique bond as family members over many years. Naturally, we want to do our best for dogs in their old age – it’s a time in their life when they need us the most, which is why caring for an older dog is so important.

Elderly dog care often involves more veterinary care, as regular check-ups are paramount so that problems, such as changes in activity, behaviour or eating habits, can be picked up quickly. There are things we can do when caring for an older dog to help them stay healthy, happy and more comfortable. Herbal medicines and dietary supplements for older dogs have an especially valuable place for ageing dogs as they are gentle on the system and effective in their actions.

Here are some issues you may have noticed in your older dog:

Elderly dogs are more susceptible to feeling the cold and heat

Your dog may feel the cold more in the winter, so a warm coat or woolly jumper to wear when they go out is helpful, especially for the short coated breeds. In the summer they may find the heat difficult so making sure there is a cool shaded place to rest, preferably with a nice cool breeze, will make them feel more comfortable.

Delicate digestions and gurgly tummies

If you’re caring for an older dog, this may well sound familiar. Dogs find gurgly tummies uncomfortable, and we don’t much like the wind that often accompanies it! Unfortunately, both seem to be more common in our elderly pets. Older dogs usually do better with smaller meals given more frequently as the digestive system can be a little more delicate than before. Try giving Digestive Tablets for Dogs after a meal; these supplements for older dogs help support digestion and make life for them, and you, more comfortable.

Arthritis

Perhaps your vet has diagnosed arthritis, with stiffness and pain caused by inflammation in the joints.. Our herbal supplement, Green Releaf® Tablets and Garlic & Fenugreek Tablets, help relieve the symptoms of this condition. Ideally, these herbal supplements for older dogs should be given together to help with pain and inflammation, making your dog’s life much more comfortable.

Improvement is gradual, but within a few weeks of feeding these natural medicines for older dog’s joints you will notice your dog moving more comfortably. These tablets can be given in conjunction with any other medication from your vet.

Reduced mobility and movement

Often the first thing we notice when caring for an older dog is that they may be a slowing down in activity. Your ageing dog may not be running around as before; be reluctant to go for walks or in jumping or getting up after a snooze. Joints may need a little support to keep their flexibility and we would firstly suggest that JointWell® Tablets are given daily. In our opinion, these are the best joint supplements for older dogs, as these contain easily absorbed ingredients that support joint cartilage and the synovial membrane that produces lubrication for the joints. These ingredients work synergistically to maintain the flexibility and mobility in the older dog.

With most joint conditions there is inflammation which can be painful and reduce mobility and movement. Turmeric has attracted a lot of attention recently and we have searched high and low - with the emphasis on quality - to find the perfect source for our Turmeric Tablets. Turmeric supplements for older dogs can be used to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes, so they are particularly useful when the body has inflammation. The turmeric in our tablets is the highest quality and potency with 95% curcuminoids and Piperine to increase the bio-availability.

Watch their weight

As older pets take less exercise they may be inclined to put on weight and so stress on the joints can increase. Try to restrict the treats and also adjust the size of their meals according to their activity level.

Urinary incontinence and leaky bladders

This can be as upsetting for the dog as it is for the owner. The bladder muscles might weaken and so they cannot help a little involuntary leaking, often while asleep. Green Releaf® Tablets given daily are effective for this problem. These supplements for older dogs ensure the bladder is emptied completely, resulting in a reduction in leaking – making life a lot easier for you and your dog.

Confusion and disorientation

Some dogs become confused with age, causing changes in behaviour which is upsetting for them and for those caring for an older dog. This can be intensified if they are a little deaf or losing sight as this can cause anxiety and an inability to settle. Giving Scullcap & Valerian Tablets daily to help relaxation and reduce anxiety will make old dogs feel calmer and less fretful.

Look at changing feed requirements

Often the elderly pet may become more picky about food. Varying the diet may suit them better but adjust the amount to take account of their activity
Avoid extra treats and titbits that may increase weight.
If they are reluctant to eat harder foods have the teeth checked to make sure there are no problems.
Raising feeding bowls is a simple thing that makes life easier too, especially for larger, taller dogs. You can buy raised stands or just use what is available, a stool or a box, to bring the bowl to a more comfortable height – simple but helpful.

Keeping healthy

We recommend giving Keeper’s Mix® daily as this general herbal conditioning supplement, ideal for older dogs. It contains a wealth of vitamins and minerals needed to maintain general health in older dogs.

By Mary Boughton MBE

Please feel welcome to discuss the supplements for older dogs that we have available with one of our experienced advisors. Please get in touch on 01308 897272 or use our contact form. Plus, get free UK delivery on orders over £50.

Note: If you are ever concerned for the health of your pet please consult your veterinary surgeon, we are not vets and can only advise on the general use of our products.