| Aging
& Longevity
10 tips to keep
your animal friend
feeling young at heart
 You’re
only as old as you feel, right? But what
about our dogs and cats? “Whenever
I walk my Bichon, Lacey, down the street,”
says Jennifer George, “someone stops
us for a pat and a chat. Inevitably, the
person will ask how old Lacey is. When
I say 14, they can’t believe their
ears. They think she’s a puppy!
I tell them that, ‘in addition to
excellent genes, Lacey takes good care
of herself’,” laughs Jennifer.
With the right care, even large breed
canines can live into their teens, and
it’s not unusual to hear of cats
over 20.
You don’t need a miracle elixir
to add years to your beloved companion’s
life. But an ounce of prevention is worth
a pound of cure. Follow these ten tips
to help your four-footed friend enjoy
his mature years to the fullest.
1. A wholesome diet
While it’s best to feed your companion
a healthy diet from babyhood, it’s
never too late to switch, as long as you
do it gradually and under the guidance
of a vet if your animal has an existing
health problem. You can choose from a
homeprepared diet made from raw or cooked
meat and vegetables, or purchase a highquality
packaged food made from natural, whole
ingredients. It’s not usually necessary
to feed a diet specially formulated for
seniors, although you may need to cut
quantities, fat and protein levels.
Fresh, pure, filtered or spring water
(not tap water) is vital, especially to
older animals who are more prone to kidney
problems. Make sure the water is changed
daily and is accessible 24/7. To increase
hydration in animals that may not drink
enough, especially cats, consider a pet
fountain – running water stays cleaner
longer and also encourages them to drink
more.
2. Vitamins for vitality
Mature animals need to be supplemented
with specific vitamins and other nutrients
to maintain good health and deal with
age-related problems. Your companion’s
requirements may vary, depending on his
individual condition, so consult with
a holistic vet before starting a supplement
regimen. In the meantime, here’s
a basic guide:
• Antioxidants – Vitamin C
(Ester C) boosts the immune system and
maintains bone and blood vessel health;
good for animals with degenerative joint
disease. Vitamin E helps with allergies,
arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and
cancer. Co Q-10 raises flagging energy
levels and protects the heart from oxidation;
can treat allergies, periodontal disease
and cancer. Vitamin A helps fight infection
and cancer and is good for the skin and
liver.
• Essential fatty acids –
Omega-3 oils are helpful for arthritis,
allergies and immune problems while Omega-6s
alleviate dry, itchy skin. Cold water
fish sources are recommended.
• Digestive enzymes – enhance
digestion and intestinal health by improving
nutrient absorption.
• Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM
– very useful for arthritis, hip
dysplasia and other joint diseases.
• Glandulars – support aging
glands and organs, thereby helping to
prevent thyroid problems, Cushings disease,
diabetes and other disorders.
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Published in
the October/November 2004 issue of Animal
Wellness
|
