Charity highlights hidden pain in elderly dogs
Some 80 per cent of dogs suffer from arthritis by the time they are eight years old.
An animal charity is raising awareness of the hidden signs of pain in elderly dogs that may go unnoticed.
The Oldies Club – an organisation that raises funds for the veterinary treatment and re homing of senior dogs – has developed an eight-point pain alert checker, which pet owners can refer to if they are worried about their companion animals.
It forms part of Animal Pain Awareness Month (September), which aims to educate and inform pet owners about their pet’s health and wellbeing when it comes to pain management.
The Oldies Club says that pain that goes unrecognised and untreated only leads to further suffering.
“We get many dogs coming into our care that have long-standing underlying health issues,” commented Carolyn Astbury, chair of the Oldies Club.
“Many of these animals have suffered in silence. Many can be re-homed to live out their lives with the love and care they deserve but some have to be long-term foster dogs, and they still need our help through donations.
“Like us, dogs can suffer from increasing health issues as they age. Some 80 per cent of dogs, for instance, suffer from arthritis by the time they are eight years old,” she said.
The eight-point pain alert checker highlights the symptoms of pain that owners of elderly dogs might not spot, including:
- Has your pet’s appetite changed?
- Is your pet struggling to find their balance?
- Is your pet suddenly not as interested in their surroundings/other dogs/ people?
- Have your pet’s sleeping patterns changed e.g., sleeping longer or less?
- Does your pet seem glum?
- Is your pet restless? Pacing about?
- Does he/she struggle to get on the sofa or to climb stairs (when formerly it wouldn’t have been a problem)?
- Has your pet’s facial expression changed?
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
