When there's a flu epidemic all the posters in the doctors warn the elderly to get a flu shot. I was just wondering - will my older dog be more susceptible to illness now, too?
What can I do to boost her immune system so she can fight off any challenges she might encounter?
Any ideas?
Robin Anderson, Essex
As the body ages, so do all the body systems which will inevitably include the immune system. It is generally advised to keep vaccinations up-to-date in order to maintain immunity to serious diseases. I would not say that I have noticed a surge in the incidence of illness in older dogs compared to when they were younger, but it can take longer for them to bounce back to health after simple illnesses such as stomach upsets.
Dogs do not seem to experience the same range of illnesses as we do. For example, they do not go through the coughs and colds which characterise one’s childhood and continue through to old age, albeit at a lesser level but with more chance of causing complications. A young dog with kennel cough is often very bright and eating well still, but with a hacking productive cough. Kennel cough in an elderly dog can cause more signs of illness (lethargy, reduced appetite) and the cough can last for longer.
A balanced diet geared to the older dog is important, as is a suitable exercise regime to keep your dog fit and interested in life. Regular short walks over easy terrain are far better than intermittent long walks over unforgiving ground, for example. Above all, though, enjoy your older dog – they still have so much to give us.
Alison Logan, vet
Natural health manifests itself in the physical appearance of your dog. A sleek, Shiny coat, bright eyes and clean airways all demonstrate the effectiveness of your dog's immune system.
ReplyDeleteImmune Aid for Dogs is fed in addition to your dog's normal feed. As our dogs get older their immune system becomes weakened, so this feed aid helps maintain the dog's natural immune system response to the presence of environmental and or feed derived foreign materials which can be harmful to both health and physical condition.
There are a lot of products available as immune boosters and can generally be added but a balanced diet is a must. The following must be provided to a dog's body
ReplyDeleteVitamins A,C,E, SELENIUM, OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS as also iron, magnesium.
The anti-oxidants are very important as they prevent DNA damage and help keep immune diseases like cancer and others in check if not prevent altogether.
I am no vet and I would not contradict any of the veterinary practices but would just like to add that unnecessary vaccination should also be avoided. Vaccinate only for diseases prevalent and apply titers test.