Pets
Age is Not Just a Number: What it Means to Have a "Mature" Pet
By
Sep 26, 2007, 22:36

(NC)-While age should not define your pet, there are certain health and physical issues you will need to address as they get older. At the ages of five, six and seven, our four-legged friends begin to experience life at a more leisurely pace. This fall is "Senior Season" for pets and according to Hill's Pet Nutrition, approximately 40 per cent of all Canadian pets are considered to be mature adults.

For giant breeds, maturing begins at the age of five, in large breeds, at age six. All other cats and dogs are considered to be mature at the age of seven when, on-average, they are equivalent to age 50 in human years. To ensure dogs and cats can fully enjoy their golden years, pet owners should work with their veterinarian to identify areas in both lifestyle and nutrition that can be improved or modified.

Because pets can't verbalize a problem, pet owners should be aware of the signs and symptoms of aging. Some of the more common signifiers include reduced mobility, decreased activity, problems climbing or jumping, different sleep patterns and hearing loss. Joint pain, kidney disease, heart disease and obesity can also become a problem.

Staying active is extremely beneficial for your mature pet's well-being. Not only does physical activity help maintain mobility and muscle tone in your pet, an active lifestyle prevents obesity and increases the time you spend bonding with them. Your veterinarian can provide a list of suggested activities that are tailored to mature pets.

One program that may be the answer for your mature pet is juMP (www.jumpfordogs.com). It was developed by Hill's Pet Nutrition and is supported by Prescription Diet j/d, a food that helps dogs improve mobility through key ingredients such as eicosapentaenoic, an Omega 3 Fatty Acid. juMP is a Personalized Joint Management Program that allows you to work with your veterinarian to incorporate elements of exercise, nutrition and weight management into your pet's daily routine.

"Having a mature pet can be wonderfully rewarding," says Dr. Clayton MacKay, DVM. "But, as with any life stage, pet owners must be cognizant of changes their pet will go through and how to best address them. Caring for a mature pet does not have to be a daunting task - it just requires a little extra effort and time."

One look at a pet's wagging tail and sweet but graying face, and you will agree the added effort and care is worth it!

© Copyright by EveningsNews.com