Age concern

My Golden Retriever is now 10 and is a lot slower than she once was. Is it worth me switching her to a senior diet? What I want to know is what differences there are between adult food and senior food, and if the dog’s body changes to the point where a change in diet if necessary.

If you could provide me with some information I would be very grateful.

Mrs P. Austin, by email

Not old, vintage!

We really like to see as many reader’s dogs as possible featured in the magazine.

In the October issue we are doing a special Golden Years feature and we’d really like to hear from you with your tried and tested solutions for any of the following issues:

- Joint and mobility problems
- ‘Alternative’ remedies for all ‘senior’ ailments
- Best accessories to make an older dogs life more comfortable – for eg raised bowls, comfortable beds, warm coats, car ramps etc
- Best nutrition for an older dog – is there a food which is better suited?
- Teeth cleaning for older dogs
- Or any other hints and tips you’d like to share to make life with an older dog just that little bit more golden!

If you experience any problems posting your replies or if you have a fantastic photo to share of your vintage dog please email rachael@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk with 'Vintage' in subject line.



Alison Hunt from Orthopets says...

We all grow old; it makes no difference whether we have two legs or four. The rate at which it occurs may vary, but growing old is an inescapable fact of life for both dog and owner. Equally, the problems and challenges that old age creates are also similar, in particular the effect on joints and the problems, perceived or otherwise, of undergoing and recovering from surgery.

So as owners of elderly dogs, what do we do when the joint problems are such that surgery is one of the few solutions available to ease the discomfort and improve the mobility of these senior citizens of the canine world? What can we do when faced with the dilemma as to whether to put our dog through surgery? Are there any other alternatives other than just continuing with endless joint supplements and pain relief?

Well, yes, in many instances there are in the form of Orthotics (orthopaedic braces), and in fact for dog owners in the US there has been for several years. Now, finally, these options are available to dogs and their owners on this side of the Atlantic.

In the human world, the use of Orthotics is commonplace, especially in sport. These devices provide stability and support to a joint for many reasons, to aid post surgical rehabilitation, to protect a problematic joint during periods of activity, or to provide long-term aid where a surgical solution is not an option or has failed. In dogs they can offer the joint support that otherwise would need surgical intervention.

For older dogs, Orthotics can be particularly useful as non-surgical alternatives to arthrodesis (joint fusion) in cases of severe arthritis or collapse of the carpus (wrist), or tarsus (ankle), as well as partial of full ruptures of the cruciate ligament or Achilles tendon.

This has been made possible through OrthoPets Europe, the recently launched European arm of US industry leaders, OrthoPets LLC. Denver, Colorado based OrthoPets LLC was created over eight years, its founder using his knowledge & experience in the human field to develop these innovative solutions for the animal world.

The devices are custom fabricated for each patient therefore ensuring the best in terms of fit, comfort and support. The shells are made of advanced plastic and should last the life of the dog. The hardware used is not adversely affected by water, all straps and pads are replaceable and other than some limitations to the actual shells, the devices can be fully refurbished.

A shining example of what can be done, is Bertie, the 13½ year old Labrador of OrthoPets Europe’s Rod & Alison Hunt. Bertie who, in his younger years had surgery for elbow OCD problems twice, is now in end stage DJD in his elbow. He’s had an elbow brace for the last couple of years and has continued to take twice daily walks with the rest of his pack since then without problems. Is he slowing down – yes definitely, but his enthusiasm for life remains and his brace allows him to get out and about comfortably. And long may it last

Here is Bertie now...

Check out http://www.facebook.com/pages/OrthoPets-Europe-Orthotic-Prosthetic-solutions-for-animals/105030962865143 and you’ll see what we mean! There is lots of information on the OrthoPets Europe website www.orthopets.co.uk so have a look and see if there is a solution that might help your oldie!