jkoch

By Dr. John Koch

Question: I have an 8-year-old dog that I notice isn't getting around as well as it used to. Could arthritis be causing this? I know that 8 years old is not young, but I didn't think it was that old. Do some dogs age earlier than others? What are the signs of aging in dogs?

Answer: Generally speaking, aging in dogs is relative to size. Larger dogs have shorter life spans than small ones and subsequently show earlier signs of aging. As an example, Great Danes have a life expectancy of only 8 to 10 years. On the other end of the spectrum, Chihuahuas may live well past 15.

Arthritis is typically seen as difficulty in rising, especially after prolonged resting in one spot. Once the pet has risen, it will demonstrate stiffness in moving until the joints loosen up. Once the joints are loose, the dog may move reasonably well during the early stages of arthritis. As the joints worsen, the dog will increasingly show more muscle atrophy, less strength, less agility and less stamina. Because of tender joints, the dog will become less active and often gain weight. The increased weight makes it even more difficult to get around. This can be a difficult and heartbreaking cycle to manage effectively. Some of the newer anti-inflammatory medications greatly improve pets' conditions.

Other signs of aging in dogs include gray hair, especially around the muzzle, overgrown toenails, difficulty seeing (cataracts), difficulty hearing, loss of bowel or urine control, memory loss or mental confusion, continual pacing and increased vocalization.

No one has discovered a fountain of youth for humans or dogs. However, there are medicines and medical management programs that are helpful in slowing the aging process.

Dr. Koch is a Cape Girardeau-area veterinarian.