As people age, their pets continue to age alongside them. Yet, it’s easy to forget that often, it’s at a much faster pace and for a much shorter lifespan. While the phrase ‘aging gracefully’ has become an increasingly popularized concept among humans, it can also be applied to the dog species.
In fact, Sara B. Hansen – Creator and Editor of DogsBestLife.com – offers a plethora of comprehensive resources dedicated to the most effective methods for owners to enhance and even extend the lives of their furry friends.
“When we bring a new puppy into the home, we don’t always consider that they’ll be with us for only a fraction of our lifetimes,” Hansen says. “As unfortunate as this reality may be, there are things we can do to make their short-lived moments with us infinitely more worthwhile.”
As outlined in a recent blog post on DogsBestLife.com, identifying the earliest signs of aging is an excellent place to start. Changes in mobility and behavior patterns are two of the four critical signs highlighted by Hansen, who astutely recognizes the subject’s sensitivities.
“It wouldn’t be a huge exaggeration to say that most dog parents still see their dogs as puppies after they’re fully grown. This is a beautiful testament to the joy dogs bring but that can also skew perception.”
This altered perception may be fueled by the speed at which dogs reach the senior stage and how quickly they become a part of the family. After all, nobody wishes to consider their family member mortal or vulnerable. Despite this, Hansen reminds her readers of the importance of confronting signs of aging as early as possible so pet parents can implement preventative measures and adjust care routines.
When addressed proactively, owners may avoid or delay an array of age-related complications, such as canine arthritis, diabetes, kidney issues, and cognitive dysfunction – discussed further in the article ‘Senior dog care: How to keep your aging dog happy and healthy.’
One significant way to prolong the life of a canine companion is to monitor their dietary intake. According to contemporary studies, dogs fed a whole-food diet live an average of 3.1 years longer than dogs that consume processed foods. Aside from the obvious consequence of canine obesity, an unhealthy diet can also lead to strained joints and heart problems, another topic explored in a blog post on DogsBestLife.com.
“Some owners equate food with love,” continues Hansen, “But regardless of how tempting it may be, to give in to a request for a treat, it is not always beneficial for your four-legged friend.”
While the pet’s physical health is typically noticeable to the naked eye, mental health issues are more likely to slip under the radar. With Hansen’s knowledgeable guidance, owners are better prepared to recognize behavioral inconsistencies that may also be warning signs of cognitive decline. Similar to their human counterparts, dogs can experience loneliness, boredom, sadness, and anxiety – some of the leading causes of canine depression.
When tackling physical or mental health concerns that may pose a risk, Hansen suggests it’s vital to consider the dog breed in question. Through its in-depth database of over 130 dog breed profiles, DogsBestLife.com helps owners understand which breeds are more prone to certain illnesses.
“Across the board, all dogs should be mentally stimulated throughout their lives – this keeps them happy, sharp, and thriving while granting them a greater chance at an enjoyable life,” says Hansen.
“Providing your dog with a fun challenge – like a puzzle toy or snuffle mat – is a great way to achieve this. Yet, some high-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds need further exercise to burn off energy and to stimulate themselves adequately. Some breeds simply require more attention and others are at risk of health complications due to their genetics, size, or build.”
With a range of knowledge available on the website, DogsBestLife.com serves as both a preventative tool and an informative database – offering life-changing advice on health maintenance and ways to prolong a dog’s treasured lifecycle.
As she continues to post engaging content to her all-encompassing site, Sara B. Hansen connects with like-minded dog lovers who share her goal of bringing lasting joy to their precious pets.
