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Special Nutritional Needs of Senior Pets
Special Nutritional Needs of Senior Pets

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Special Nutritional Needs of Senior Pets

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    As dogs age, changes occur in the way their bodies function, so it makes sense that what they eat also might need to change. The following list of health issues might be more common in aging pets.

    • Decreased immune-system function
    • More frequent intestinal problems
    • Decreased mobility
    • Dental issues

     

     

    Special Nutrition for Special Needs

    Decreased Immune System Function

    Throughout a dog’s life, a process called peroxidation occurs. Peroxidation is a normal process that the body uses to destroy cells that outlive their usefulness and to kill germs, parasites, etc. This process, however, also can destroy or damage healthy cells. As your dog ages, the damage caused by peroxidation accumulates, which, in turn, increases the risk of certain problems, such as infections.
     

    Antioxidants are naturally occurring nutrients that help maintain overall health by neutralizing the peroxidation process of cellular molecules. Some antioxidants, such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, and lutein, are naturally occurring nutrients.
     

    Recent research sponsored by The IAMS™ Company found that dogs fed a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E, lutein, or beta-carotene had improved immune responses and vaccine recognition. This might be especially important in senior dog care; IAMS research has found that as dogs age, immune responses can decrease.

     

    More Frequent Intestinal Problems

    Older dogs might have higher numbers of unfavorable bacteria and lower numbers of beneficial bacteria in their intestines, which can result in clinical signs of gastrointestinal problems (e.g., diarrhea).
     

    Feeding a diet containing fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a unique fiber source that helps nutritionally maintain healthy intestinal bacterial populations, promotes growth of beneficial bacteria. Beet pulp, a moderably fermentable fiber source, also helps maintain intestinal health by providing energy for the cells lining the intestine and promoting small, firm stools.

     

     

    Signs That Your Dog Needs Senior Food

    Different dogs show signs of aging at different times, and much of this variation is associated with size. Larger dogs generally appear 'old' sooner than smaller dogs. The table below lists the age at which various groups of dogs should be transitioned to senior foods, such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Senior Plus.

     

     

    Dog Weight and Transition to Senior Food

    Weight RangeAge to Begin Transition
    More than 90 lbs5 years
    51 to 90 lbs6 years
    21 to 50 lbs7 years
    Up to 20 lbs7 years

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      When To Bathe A Puppy?

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      Bathing your puppy is an important part of good pet care. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pet parent, it's crucial to provide your pup with ample and frequent baths to keep them looking and feeling healthy. More than just for appearances, though, regular baths are essential for maintaining proper hygiene and skin health – like how we need showers! To help ensure your pup looks and feels its best, here are our top tips for bathing your furry friend.

      When you get a new puppy, one of the first questions that may come to mind is, 'How often to bathe a puppy?' You shouldn't bathe your puppy until they are around eight weeks old. Even then, the process should be approached with care and gentleness. After their initial bath, you typically only need to do so again when necessary.

      Before you start, ensure you have everything you need for your puppy's first bath. This includes a place to bathe your puppy, towels, shampoo and conditioner for long-furred dogs, a brush or comb and a hair dryer with a relaxed setting.

      To ensure your puppy is comfortable during the bath:

      • Start by getting them used to the water.
      • Fill the tub with lukewarm water, however, ensure that you do not fill it completely. Let the water level be only a few inches above its paws.
      • Place your puppy into the tub and allow it to get comfortable. Give your new pal some treats and talk to it in a calm and reassuring voice.

      Once your puppy is comfortable with the water, it's time to wash them.

      How and when to bathe a puppy: Step-by-step guide

      If it's your first time bathing a puppy, don't fret - we've got you covered with this guide on how to bathe a puppy.

      1. Assessing your puppy's coat type

      Determine the right shampoo and conditioner for your pup before even getting them wet. All of this comes down to what type of fur they have. Get professional advice from your vet first to know which products would be best for your puppy.

      Pups with short coats need more oil to add moisture, whereas long-coated dogs require moisturisers to maintain coat health.

      1. Make it a pleasant experience

      We recommend bathing puppies as young as eight weeks old so that it becomes a part of their routine. But don't overwhelm them; a puppy's first visit shouldn't include baths. Instead, let this serve as an introduction and show them that there is nothing to be scared of.

      Allow the puppy to roam free and get them used to being in a tub by slowly running a brush over their fur. Be sure to give lots of treats, swaddling, and cuddles to make them feel safe.

      1. Brush your puppy's coat gently

      To get started with the bathing and grooming process, lightly brush or comb their coat to remove any dirt. Also, doing this will help eliminate any knots or tangles in their fur before bathing them.

      1. Get the water to a lukewarm temperature

      Get the water to a comfortable temperature; it should be warm but not hot. Puppies have more sensitive skin than we do, so they will feel the heat much faster.

      Before you start, lay out everything you will need and ensure no one in the house uses any water while you're bathing the puppy. Sudden temperature changes can be dangerous for puppies; hence, taking precautions is essential.

      1. Cleanse gently with lukewarm water and a rag (For puppies aged 3-4 months old)

      To avoid skin irritation, forego cleansing products when they are young and use lukewarm water instead. The temperature must be comfortable for your pup, as hot water can harm dogs.

      A warm wash rag is all you need to use on a puppy that is three or four-months old. Dogs' body temperatures are higher than ours, so they experience temperature differently than we do.

      1. Give your puppy a bath

      For puppies older than three or four months, you can bathe them in a bathtub or shower. Handling your puppy can be delicate, especially when it's time for their bath. If you have a particular bathtub or shower specifically for puppies, use that--it'll make things much more manageable. Be sure to place them on a non-slip surface inside the tub or shower, so they don't become overwhelmed and frightened.

      1. Choose the right shampoo and conditioner

      It's time to introduce shampoo and conditioner to your puppy once they are at least three months old.

      Only purchase shampoos and conditioners for dogs that are pH balanced to avoid health hazards. We recommend plant-based products with no chemical additives to maintain a healthy coat and skin. Also, please don't go for the cheapest product, as it might not be practical or safe.

      Before using the puppy shampoo, dilute it with equal water. Apply it all over their body, being mindful to avoid contact with sensitive areas like eyes and ears.

      1. Go slow

      Remember that bathing a puppy is like washing a tiny human baby. They won't be used to the feels and may not take it well at first.

      If you want to avoid scratches, use the balls of your fingers and massage the shampoo into the coat -- this will help remove dirt and dust. Plus, your puppy will love it!

      1. Rinse the fur thoroughly

      Rinse your puppy's fur thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo after bathing. You should repeat the process a few times for best results.

      Keep your dog's skin clean by getting between the folds with baby wipes or a damp cloth to remove all soap. Once you are done, be sure to dry their skin thoroughly.

      1. Dry off your puppy

      Gently rub your puppy with a towel to remove the excess water, then place them on the floor in a safe area.

      Until they are no longer dripping, you can keep them towel dry. Have someone help you hold onto them or sit down on your knee to ensure they feel secure.

      Next, you will want to use a hairdryer on your pup's coat. It's best to use a diffuser to spread the heat evenly, and ensure it's only set on low or cool.

      When you use a hairdryer on your puppies, go slow to get them used to the sensation and noise. Avoid blowing air directly into their face or ears. Try to get them as dry as possible, and for long-coated breeds, frequently stop to brush or comb through their coat, so it doesn't get tangled.

      1. Maintain a good bathing routine for healthy skin

      Your dog's health is crucial, so you should bathe them once a month. Over time, their skin and fur become oily and dirty from environmental factors and everyday activities. Including baths in your pet care routine will keep them happy and healthy.

      For a puppy, it's best to stick with lukewarm water, mild soap, and gentle massages. Remember to follow up with regular brushing, which can help keep their coat soft and shiny. Minimal shampooing is recommended, as bathing too often will lead to dry skin.

      These steps should have you on your way to a happy and healthy puppy. With regular baths, you can help ensure your pup is always looking and feeling its best. It may take time for them to get used to it but bathing your puppy can be an enjoyable experience if done correctly. Have fun with it!

       

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