I'm really struggling and could use some advice. My old furry buddy, Max, isn't doing well at all. He's a 14-year-old golden retriever, and over the past few weeks, he's really gone downhill. He's been having a lot of trouble getting up and moving around, and he's not eating much anymore – I can see he's in pain even though he's always been such a trooper. Just looking at him lying on his bed, barely wagging his tail, breaks my heart. I've taken him to the vet, and they mentioned that his arthritis is getting worse and he's also developed some kidney problems. They gave us some meds, but he still seems so uncomfortable and I'm worried the treatments might be making things worse. I'm lost and scared about what to do next – I just want whatever time he has left to be as comfortable and happy as possible. Does anyone have experience with senior dogs going through this? Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for reading.
Hello there,
I'm really sorry to hear your senior dog isn't feeling well. Our older furry friends can experience various health issues, so let's explore what might be going on.
As pets age, they can face challenges like arthritis, dental problems, or kidney issues. Sudden changes in weight, increased thirst, or difficulty moving? Those can often signal something's off, and sometimes it's as simple as discomfort from aching joints.
At home, ensure your dog has a cozy, easily accessible spot to rest. A softer bed can help with joint pain. Keep food and water within easy reach and consider using a harness for additional support during walks.
However, be on the lookout for more pressing signs. If your dog is refusing food or water, having trouble breathing, vomiting, or displaying confusion, these could be signs of something more serious that needs immediate attention.
I'd recommend setting up a video consult with Dial A Vet. This way, we can dive a little deeper into your dog’s specific symptoms and come up with a tailored care plan. It's all about ensuring the best possible comfort and care for your pup.
Take care!
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