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  298.GRAPES AND RAISINS

  Lots of people like to give fruit as treats, but grapes are deadly to dogs. They cause kidney failure. Some dogs seem to be much more sensitive than others. First signs are vomiting, followed by lethargy, excessive thirst, and urination. Then, the kidneys shut down, and there is coma and death. Best avoided! Don’t forget foods that contain raisins, too.

  299.ONIONS AND GARLIC

  These foods cause gut irritation but can also affect the blood and cause anemia. Onions are the most toxic. The poisoning is usually slow, so signs don’t appear until a few days afterward.

  300.XYLITOL

  The sweetener Xylitol is found in many foods and sugar substitutes. In dogs, this sweetener makes the body release insulin. This drops blood sugar rapidly, so much so that dogs can quickly go into a coma and die. Ingesting it can also cause liver failure.

  301.OTHER FOODS

  Other foods that can be poisonous are raw bread dough, alcohol, macadamia nuts, blue cheese, and any foods that have gone moldy. Keep all these foods away from your dog.

  302.PESTICIDES

  Rats, mice, slugs, and snails are pests for a lot of humans, and it is common to set out poisons for them. Many pest poisons are toxic for dogs, too. Slug bait and rat poison can easily kill dogs. Avoid them if at all possible.

  303.MEDICATION

  Dogs are like kids. They’ll learn to open cupboards, reach high, and nose about in handbags! Many dogs each year are poisoned by both human and animal medication. Keep them all well out of the way. This includes your own recreational or prescribed drugs.

  304.HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS

  Any manner of household and garden chemical can be swallowed, chewed, and licked by your dog. Keep everything locked away, and don’t leave buckets of household chemicals around.

  305.PLANTS AND ANIMALS

  Some plants, such as daffodils and other spring bulbs, can be dangerous. In many countries around the world, there are also venomous animals to watch out for. Keep your dog well trained, so you can call the dog away from danger if you need to.

  306.WHAT TO DO?

  If you think your dog has been poisoned, go straight to your vet. Take the packet or container if you can. There are very few antidotes, but supportive treatment can save lives, and the earlier the better.

  WHEN TO GO TO THE VET

  307.BE SAFE

  If you’re ever worried or unsure about something, it’s better to be on the safe side—so go and see your vet. Lots of people have later regretted that they didn’t.

  308.BE OBSERVANT

  The more you know what is normal for your dog, the sooner you will spot changes or odd signs. Try to have a rough idea of your dog’s normal drinking and eating habits and amounts. How often does the dog relieve itself? What do the poops normally look like? Keep doing the checks mentioned in the puppy section. This way, you’ll find lumps and bumps that fur might hide.

  309.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #1: APPETITE

  Some dogs aren’t very driven by food, while others would eat all day. If your dog’s appetite goes down, or your dog goes off food altogether for more than a day, seek advice. A reduced appetite could be a sign of fever, pain, or any number of infections and conditions. An increased appetite can also be a sign of disease, such as Cushing’s or diabetes.

  310.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #2: DRINKING

  Normal water needs for dogs is about 0.5 to 1 ounce per pound (30 to 60 ml per kg) each day. The amount they drink will vary depending on their level of exercise and if they are given wet food, so try to have an idea of what is normal for your dog. More than 1.5 ounces per pound (90 ml per kg) each day is not normal. Increased thirst is a sign of many diseases, such as kidney disease, Cushing’s, diabetes, pyometra, and high blood calcium. Always see your vet if you think your dog is drinking more than usual.

  311.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #3: VOMITING

  Vomiting is serious because if an animal can’t keep fluids down it becomes dehydrated very quickly. If your dog vomits frequently for more than 12 hours, see a vet immediately. Vomiting very soon after food, even if your dog is alert, can be a sign of a blockage in the intestines and needs investigating. If your dog seems very lethargic and vomits, go to the vet straight away.

  312.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #4: DIARRHEA

  Diarrhea is very common in dogs. Watery, profuse diarrhea is more worrying than slimy, soft poops. If your dog has very dark or black diarrhea, your dog may be bleeding internally. If you see blood, go to your vet. If your dog is bright and still eating, you can wait a day or two to see if the diarrhea settles. If more than 48 hours passes, or if your dog seems unwell, go straight away.

  313.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #5: STRAINING TO URINATE

  A dog can get urinary infections just like a human can, and you may notice your dog trying to pee but passing only a few drips. Some dogs also get bladder stones. A blocked bladder is a medical emergency. If you ever think your dog can’t pass urine or is having difficulty, go straight to your vet.

  314.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #6: BLOAT

  Some dogs get gastric dilation or bloat. If a dog gets very swollen, normally after eating, or if the dog is trying to be sick but nothing is coming up, seek immediate veterinary advice. Swollen stomachs can twist, and this is rapidly fatal. Only about 50 percent of dogs experiencing twists survive, so the earlier the dog is seen, the better.

  315.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #7: LUMPS

  Lumps can be signs of cancer, but many lumps are nothing to worry about. In general, if the lumps are slow-growing, smooth, painless, not firmly attached to the tissue around them, and not ulcerated, they are benign. The opposite means possible problems. If you’re ever unsure, get them checked.

  316.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #8: BALD PATCHES

  Hair loss is normal, and many owners are constantly covered in dog hair! However, if you see bald patches, with or without scabs and itching, get your dog checked out. Hair loss can be a sign of parasites and allergies, but also some hormonal problems, too.

  317.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #9: SNEEZING

  Sneezing is unusual in dogs and should usually be investigated. It may be a sign of something stuck in the nose, especially if the sneezing starts very suddenly on a walk. Chronic sneezing with any kind of mucus coming from one or both sides of the nose should definitely be investigated, as should any swellings on the muzzle.

  318.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #10: COUGHING

  Normal breathing is fairly silent, so if you hear any coughing, wheezing, or snoring, you should see a vet. Breathing changes could be because of chest infections, but coughing can also be a sign of heart failure, so don’t ignore it.

  319.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #11: SMELLS!

  Lots of things can change the way your dog smells. Watch out for smelly ears, skin, and breath. These can be signs of ear mites, infections, skin allergies, dental disease, and so on.

  320.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #12: LETHARGY

  If your dog seems very tired or reluctant to go for a walk, you should have your dog checked over. It may be a sign of heart problems but can also be from anemia or even bleeding internally in the case of some tumors.

  321.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #13: WEIGHT

  Weigh your dog regularly at the vet. Weight loss is a common sign of disease and can go unnoticed to begin with, especially with very hairy breeds. Weight gain may be just a matter of feeding too much, and you can correct it, but it may also be a sign of thyroid problems or other hormonal diseases that need a vet’s treatment.

  322.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #14: EYES

  Eyes can easily get permanently damaged if left untreated. Look out for the whites of the eye being red or bloodshot, discharge from one or both eyes, swollen lids, or squinting. Squinting or half-closed eyes are usually signs of pain.

  323.WHEN TO GO TO THE VET #15: TWITCHES AND FITS

  Any neurological signs should be treated as an emergency. Seizures can be life-threatening. A tilted head, weakness, knuckle dragging, facial drooping, or
twitching can be signs of brain or spinal cord problems. Don’t leave them unexamined for too long.

  324.DON’T HESITATE

  Of course, there will be many other things that may prompt you to go to the vet. If you are ever in doubt, don’t hesitate.

  SUPER SENIORS

  COMMON HEALTH PROBLEMS FOR OLDER DOGS

  325.TEETH

  Older dogs are very likely to have some teeth problems, including tartar, plaque, or gum disease. Brushing throughout life helps, but sometimes they’ll need extractions or tartar removal. Many dogs with infected gums suffer in silence and really benefit from a dental clean and antibiotics.

  326.JOINTS

  Arthritis is very common in older dogs. Hips, elbows, and knees are most affected. Certain diets, joint supplements, and painkillers can make life much more comfortable for senior dogs.

  327.LUMPS

  Fatty lumps called lipomas are very common in older dogs. Look back at what was said before about the rules for lumps. Lipomas are usually smooth and slow-growing, and they glide about a little when touched.

  328.WHEN TO ACT ON LUMPS

  Lipomas rarely cause problems unless they get very big or are in an awkward place, such as the armpit. If you’re ever in any doubt about a lump and feel it could be cancerous, go to your vet.

  329.CANCER

  As well as lump-type growths, older dogs are more likely to get cancer internally. Watch out for weight loss, tiredness, coughing, and swollen bellies. Many cancers can be treated, and the earlier they are found the better.

  330.KIDNEY FAILURE

  If your dog starts drinking and peeing a lot, loses weight, or goes off food, it could be a sign of kidney disease. Diet and medication can help prolong life.

  331.LIVER FAILURE

  Yellow eyes and gums, vomiting, loss of appetite, and a swollen abdomen can all be signs of liver problems. Your vet can use medicines to help with some liver diseases. Feeding a lower-protein liver diet in lots of small meals also helps reduce the strain on the liver.

  332.HEART FAILURE

  Some breeds of dog are very prone to heart disease, but any older dog of any kind can be affected. Coughing and not being able to exercise are common signs of this issue. Medication can make a massive difference to life expectancy.

  333.HORMONES

  Diabetes and other hormonal or endocrine diseases, such as thyroid problems and Cushing’s, are more common in older dogs. Look out for weight gain, increased thirst, and changes in appetite and fur.

  334.BREATHING

  Coughing, wheezing, and even gagging can be signs of breathing problems or issues such as collapsing windpipes. These can be very serious, so always seek veterinary advice.

  335.NAILS

  Many dogs virtually never need their nails cut because walking keeps them short. Older dogs that don’t exercise as much can get very overgrown nails, so keep an eye on them. Ask your vet if you think your dog’s nails are too long.

  336.GROOMING

  Older dogs are less supple and may find grooming themselves more of an issue. Hair is more likely to be matted and clumped and could be uncomfortable. Regular, gentle grooming will help.

  337.EARLY DETECTION

  With most mammals, including humans, diseases and organ failure sometimes don’t show signs until it’s too late to help. Your vet may recommend regular blood tests for mature pets every year or half-year. These are very important for finding diseases early, when you still have a chance to act.

  AGING GRACEFULLY

  338.AGING GRACEFULLY

  Changes come with old age, and dogs show many different behaviors related to their later years. They may take longer to pick up new skills, or they may forget locations and pre-existing training.

  339.BEHAVIORAL CHANGES IN OLD AGE

  As a dog’s hearing, scent, vision, and touch senses deteriorate, this can affect how the dog perceives the world. Owners often notice physical changes, such as their companion’s slower movement upon rising, but forget that emotions and behavior are also impacted.

  340.MENTAL AGILITY

  Older dogs are capable of learning new skills but may need additional practice. They may not problem-solve as quickly as they used to, so be patient. When teaching new behaviors, give additional guidance and more repetitions to help older dogs stay confident. The practice keeps their lives interesting. Avoid punishing them for slips in memory.

  341.ACCIDENTS

  Older dogs may need to relieve themselves more frequently or may not be able to quickly access the area where it usually goes, so provide extra opportunities to go outside. Accidents may occur. Older female dogs, especially those that are spayed, may leak a little urine at times. See your vet for help.

  342.A YOUNGER COMPANION?

  You may add another dog to the family, but your older dog needs careful preparation. Elderly dogs do not like being bounced around by a puppy! They may not appreciate having to share their space. Provide a quiet space for your elder to retreat to, undisturbed.

  343.ACTIVITY WALKS

  An older dog may manage a long walk but will more likely enjoy a ramble at your side. Shorter walks prevent aches. Let the dog sniff to their heart’s content in undergrowth. Your dog may not be able to find you as easily as before, so use a long line to keep track of your companion’s whereabouts.

  344.CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

  The brain deteriorates with age, and capacity can also diminish. Your dog may not be able to recognize familiar people any longer. An aging dog might not sleep at night, becoming distressed instead and barking when you are not in the room. The dog may worry when separated from you, or stare into space for long periods.

  345.MANAGING SENILITY

  Aim to keep to existing routines, and look out for distress signals, such as panting, yawning, or licking lips. Your old dog will sleep very deeply and may be hard to rouse from slumber, so go gently.

  346.BRAIN FOOD

  Some companies make foods rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which have been proven to reverse some of the changes seen with brain aging and to help slow down the progression. Talk to your vet about whether these foods would suit your dog.

  347.SEVERE BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS

  Separation distress can appear as part of cognitive dysfunction and can be difficult to resolve. Your dog may defecate or urinate in front of you, not realizing the urge and forgetting to ask to go out. If you notice this or see repetitive behaviors, such as pacing or circling, ask your vet or clinical behaviorist for advice.

  348.DEALING WITH LOSS

  Should your elderly dog pass away, be aware that you and any other family members and pets will need time and space to grieve. Prepare for everyone to get the extra support needed to recover from the loss.

  NUTRITION AND EXERCISE FOR OLDER DOGS

  349.NEEDS

  As dogs age, they need fewer and fewer calories on the whole, so remember to watch their weight. As they tend to get stiff with arthritis, it’s even more important to see them slim.

  350.FEEDING

  Talk to your vet about switching to a higher-fiber diet if your dog is hungry on smaller rations. Splitting the ration into three or four meals a day also helps keep the dog feeling fuller.

  351.MATURE OR SENIOR

  Most good food companies make diets especially for older animals, often called mature or senior diets. These tend to have lower protein and mineral amounts, to be gentler on older organs.

  352.UNDERWEIGHT

  With age and some diseases, dogs become underweight. As said before, if you notice weight loss, go straight to your vet.

  353.EXERCISE

  Your older dog may not want or need to go out for walks as long or as often as before. If you find yourself dragging your dog out for a walk, ease off and try to listen to your companion to decide how much to do.

  354.LITTLE AND OFTEN

  In general, with older dogs it’s better to go for more frequent, shorter walks than one or two long ones. This keeps t
hem mobile without overdoing it.

  355.SWIMMING

  If you have a dog that likes swimming and you can do it safely, it’s great exercise in moderation for older dogs. Just as for humans, non-weight-bearing exercise can help with joint problems.

  356.PRESCRIPTION FOODS

  At this stage, your vet may be more likely to recommend a specific food if your dog is unwell. Joints, kidneys, livers, and hearts may be showing signs of wear and tear, and certain diets can really benefit these conditions.

  SAYING GOODBYE

  357.INEVITABLE

  We have amazing medical and surgical expertise nowadays, just as in human medicine, but death is sadly inevitable. At least for our pets we can offer a dignified end.

  358.HEARTBREAK

  Every owner who has ever said goodbye to a beloved pet will have felt the heartbreak that this brings but also the feelings of guilt because it is often the owner’s decision.

  359.TALK

  The death can dwell in your thoughts for months, so make sure you talk to your family and friends, and also your veterinary team.

  360.ULTIMATE KINDNESS

  You make your dog’s life as great as you can, and allowing a pain-free death and an end to suffering is the ultimate kindness you can offer.

  361.GOING PEACEFULLY

  Many owners wish their dogs would pass away quietly in their sleep. Sadly, it is very rare for natural deaths to happen this way.