HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY PHOTO
Hawaiian Humane Society volunteer Margaret Murphy adopted this poodle, Mele, last March. As a senior pet, Mele had some health problems, but thanks to Margaret's loving care, the spirited poodle has blossomed into a happy, healthy companion.
As we grow older, we slow down a little; the same is true for our pets, so you'll want to do everything you can to ensure their good health and high quality of life. Aging pets require
specialized care
Love-a-Dog month
Hawaiian Humane Society
Diet is an important consideration for mature pets. Because they exercise less than younger animals, they need fewer calories and less protein. But don't automatically switch your pet to a "seniors" diet. Each pet's needs are different and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Although exercise routines may need to change as a pet ages, the beneficial effects make moderate exercise one of the keys to good senior care. An easy walk around the block may be just what a dog with arthritis or a heart condition needs. And you may need to groom your pet more frequently because age may make his coat more brittle and his skin drier.
Regular visits to your veterinarian, to keep immunizations up to date and detect problems early, are important. Your veterinarian also can help you understand your pet's aging process, which varies from breed to breed. Through regular exams and recommended screenings, your pet can be assessed for everything from tooth decay to poor liver function.
Monitor your pet closely for any symptoms that its health is compromised, and discuss these changes with your veterinarian. Signs to watch for include:
>> Changes in food and water consumption.Unusual behavior can signal that your pet is losing his vision or becoming deaf. Your older pet can adapt readily to changes, with your help. If this is the case, avoid moving furniture or changing his environment unnecessarily. It is important to keep your pet in a familiar environment where he will feel safe and comfortable.
>> Changes in urination and defecation.
>> Vomiting or diarrhea.
>> Weight gain or loss.
>> Changes in activity level.
>> Difficulty walking or getting up.
>> Abnormal odors.
>> Skin lumps, masses or sores that are not healing.
>> Coughing or sneezing.Just like us, our animal friends may become less active, and their metabolism slows as they age. Their immune system can weaken and make them more susceptible to infectious diseases and serious illnesses like cancer. Organs such as the heart and kidneys may function less efficiently and create health difficulties. When we understand our pet's needs and the advances in medicine that have become available, we can assure longer and better lives for our cherished companions.
The average life expectancy of a well-cared-for indoor cat is now about 15 years, though 20-plus years is not unheard of. And dogs can be expected to live 10 to 20 years, depending on the size and type of dog. That's a lot of years of giving and receiving love. Pets are a lifelong commitment, and you can extend their life expectancy by better understanding their nutritional, medical and safety needs.
"Pet Ohana" runs the first and third Fridays of the month. The Hawaiian Humane Society is a nonprofit agency dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. It is at 2700 Waialae Ave. Call 946-2187.
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October is Love-A-Dog month, and those who adopt a puppy or dog this month at the Hawaiian Humane Society will receive free dog food, free heartworm preventative, a photo of the pet and his new family, and a magnetic photo frame, in addition to all that's regularly included with each $55 adoption. Love-A-Dog month
Other activities this month:
>> Meet Dr. Marty Becker, co-author of "Chicken Soup for the Cat and Dog Lover's Soul," who will talk about perfecting your pet's (and family's) happiness and good health, 7 p.m. Oct. 23 at Central Union Church Parish Hall. Tickets are $5. Call 946-2187, ext. 213.>> K-9 Game Day: Bring your well-behaved dogs to play the Shaggy Dog Scavenger Hunt, relay race, obstacle course and musical chairs to win prizes and snacks, 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 26 at Thomas Square Park. It's free.
>> Free Microchip ID: Purchase the new Adopt-A-Dog T-shirt from Crazy Shirts at Ala Moana or Pearlridge this month, and you'll receive a coupon for a free microchip ID for your dog.
Check the calendar at www.hawaiianhumane.org, in the News & Events section, for other events.
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calendars and events.
