Subtle signs of illness in your pet

With a house full of senior dogs, I know firsthand the challenges of figuring out what's normal aging and what's not. It's easy to assume that a decline in energy or mobility is just a sign of old age, but sometimes there's more going on. 

Last year, I lost Prada just before her 15th birthday. Looking back, I realize now that she was uncomfortable for some time, but I assumed it was just old age. After her passing, I noticed my Malinois, who is now 15, was drinking a lot of water and seemed stressed when left alone, along with being generally more restless. I thought she was just getting senile, but a trip to the vet revealed she may have Cushing's. Knowing the cause of her restlessness has helped me better manage her symptoms.

Similarly, Vibe, my 13-year-old, was holding his tail differently, a bit tighter to his body and he struggling to get around more each day. I assumed the issue was a rear-end issue since he dislocated his hip several years ago. But after an adjustment didn't help, I took him for an exam and learned that the issue was actually with his back. With medication, supplements, and limited activity, he's feeling much better. Sadly, he still wants to do all the things, but I have to limit him a bit. When I leave the house with the other dogs, he looks so sad, it just kills me. I've tried giving him a treat and sneaking out, but then I feel worse for tricking him. 

Seniors are such a blessing, but also, so hard on the heart.

The infographic below has some examples of what you can look for in your pet.