As witnesses to the journey of pet patients who are growing older alongside their loving families, we are privy to immense joy, but also often immense heartache. Aging brings about inevitable physiological changes that require much attention and care. With the right support, however, this inevitable biological process doesn’t need to be pain-filled or traumatic.
Providing a solid understanding of the aging process to pet parents, along with recommendations for supplemental support for aging dogs where necessary, is key to the senior pooch’s quality of life.
Common concerns for aging dogs
1. Joint health
It’s no surprise that one of the most common concerns for aging dogs is joint health. Over time, everyday wear and tear can lead to conditions that cause discomfort and decreased mobility. Indeed, osteoarthritis affects 80 percent of dogs over the age of eight, and possibly up to 35 percent of dogs of all ages. Offering support for these health concerns is obviously important to a happy, healthy journey for the aging pooch.
ThorneVet’s Joint Support Formula is one example of an animal health supplement that offers support in this regard. Enriched with joint health superheroes glucosamine and chondroitin, Joint Support Formula offers vet-approved relief by repairing damage, maintaining flexibility, and balancing inflammatory responses, ensuring that our furry friends stay active and comfortable.
2. Brain health
Cognitive decline is another issue that impacts the aging pet. Common symptoms of canine cognitive dysfunction include disorientation, altered interactions with owners, other pets and the environment, sleep-wake cycle disturbances, house-soiling, and decreases in activity. These are all symptoms that can be alleviated with an animal health supplement like ThorneVet’s Canine Cognitive Support.
With ingredients carefully selected for supporting brain health, including the antioxidant dimethylglycine and the amino acid L-arginine, Canine Cognitive Support enhances cerebral blood flow, combats cognitive dysfunction, and promotes mental sharpness in the senior dog.
3. Cardiovascular health
Heart health is obviously paramount as a pet ages, with heart conditions especially becoming more prevalent in this population. As many as 10 percent of all dogs in the United States exhibit some form of cardiovascular disease. Naturally, the older the dog, the higher the risk.
Keeping the heart strong and healthy is essential for ensuring an older pet can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. ThorneVet’s Heart Health Formula features Coenzyme Q10 and Quercetin – both well known for:
- promoting optimal oxygen utilization,
- protecting the heart muscle, and
- offering crucial anti-inflammatory antioxidant support.
4. Overall vitality
Collagen plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and vitality, especially in senior pets. ThorneVet’s CollagenVET supplement, packed with collagen peptides, supports joint health, skin and coat health, gut health, nutrient absorption, and overall vitality. It’s ultimately a game-changer for seniors, providing comprehensive support to help them thrive in their later years. You could also include ThorneVet’s Canine Geriatric Basics and ThorneVet’s Hemp Tincture in a senior pooch patient’s health regimen. This powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and botanical nutrients addresses a wide range of senior pet concerns, providing support for stress, pain, GI distress, and uncomfortable skin conditions.
By taking an integrative approach to support for aging dogs, and incorporating key healthy-aging ingredients, we can help our beloved furry companions enjoy a happy, healthy, and vibrant life – long into their senior years.
AUTHOR PROFILE
Dr. Keith Weingardt is a 1999 graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. He completed acupuncture certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 2004 and certification in herbal medicine at the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine in 2006. He has started successful integrative veterinary practices in San Diego, CA and Portland, OR. He is a dedicated herbalist and enjoys working with the plants of the Pacific Northwest. Currently, he works as a consultant for ThorneVet, specializing in product development and continuing education.
