How do you assess a dog's quality of life?
Assessing a dog's quality of life involves looking at multiple aspects of their life. I would examine how they're interacting with your family, how excited they get about things that usually excite them, like going on walks or being fed, their mobility around the house, up and down stairs, on and off couches and beds, as well as how well they are eating and how easily or difficult it is for them to breathe and other vital signs.
What are common signs that a dog may be struggling with their health or comfort?
Signs that a dog may be struggling include reduced mobility, staying in one area, not getting up and moving around, and not following you around the house if they used to do that. More labored breathing, with their abdomen involved, not just their chest, and a breathing rate over 40 breaths per minute while they're at rest can indicate struggles. Additionally, if they are eating less than usual, that can signal an underlying issue.
How can dog owners monitor changes in behavior, appetite, or mobility in their dog?
Taking videos can be very helpful for comparing from one day to a week or two later since you live with the dog and see it every day. Subtle changes can be difficult to notice without having two time points to compare. Keeping journals of how much activity they did, how far they wanted to walk, and how much they ate can also be helpful for daily comparisons.
What tools or quality of life scales can help evaluate a dog's well-being?
I use a scale of thinking about five things your dog loved to do when they were younger. If they're not doing at least half of those, it might be time to consider their quality of life. There are also resources with questionnaires and point systems to evaluate their quality of life.
What are some non-invasive ways to improve a senior dog's quality of life at home?
Some non-invasive ways to improve their quality of life include laying down area rugs, runners, or yoga mats to aid in getting up and down and walking around. Using a sling or device to support their back or front end when walking up and down stairs, getting a ramp for car access, and having a ramp or stairs for getting on and off high beds are all helpful for senior dogs.
How can routine veterinarian visits support pet health for older dogs?
Routine visits can help your veterinarian detect issues early. Addressing issues early makes treatment easier and more effective than waiting until the dog is very ill or having difficulty moving around. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
When is it time to consider palliative or hospice care for a senior dog?
Palliative or hospice care is often considered in cases of chronic kidney disease, liver failure, or certain cancers. It's a personal decision, and at some point, it should be considered whether palliative care is still providing quality of life or if it might be time to consider euthanasia to help them pass peacefully.
How do you help pet owners navigate emotional decisions about end-of-life care?
I believe it's important for the veterinarian to be an objective outside party. While we care deeply for your pet, it is easier for us to see the objective issues affecting your animal. We can help you understand if they're suffering, identify the cause, and determine if there are ways to alleviate it, or if it might be kindest to help them pass.
What are common conditions that affect senior dogs and how can they be managed to extend quality of life?
Common conditions include osteoarthritis, which can be managed with joint supplements, pain medications, and physical therapy to extend their mobility. For breathing issues or heart conditions, medications can help, but if these conditions become severe, there may be limited options to keep them comfortable.
How can pet owners partner with their veterinarian to create a personalized care plan for their senior dog?
It's important to bring all your concerns to your veterinarian during visits. Expressing concerns ahead of time allows the veterinarian to prepare and think about the best approaches. Since you live with your pet, providing detailed information about their daily life is crucial for creating an effective care plan.
From the happy years to the hardest moments, we are here for you and your pet. If you need support or would like to discuss your options, we want you to feel informed and comfortable every step of the way. Give us a call at (845) 626-5555.