Looking after your aging dog

As your dog gets older it is important to keep a keen eye on its health. Prevention is better than cure and through regular check-ups it will be easier to detect any irregularities or changes in your dog’s health. Tygerberg Animal Hospital recommends that you make an appointment with your vet for a demonstration on checking your pooch’s vital signs. You will be shown how to thoroughly take your pet’s temperature. The average temperature of a healthy dog is 38°C. Your vet will also tell you the normal pulse rate for your dog’s breed and size, as well as how to perform a respiration test and to check your pet’s circulation. Observing your pooch’s water intake and knowing how to check its hydration levels is also very important in monitoring your dog’s health and your vet will be able to provide you with all the information you require.