Older dogs often exhibit several different symptoms, including bladder stones. These conditions cause painful urination, lethargy, loss of appetite, and blood in the urine. While this is not life-threatening, it is a sign that the dog is getting older and may need medical attention. Here are a few of the most common symptoms and possible causes.
Incontinence
Incontinence in older dogs is a common health problem. In some cases, the condition is cured. It can be an anxiety-related symptom, a result of a medical condition, or general muscle loss with age. There are also some preventative measures you can take to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible.
Joint stiffness
As your dog ages, it is common for him to experience joint pain. It may seem inconsequential, but if left untreated, joint pain can develop into a more serious problem. Your veterinarian can help you determine the cause and treatment of joint pain in your dog.
Cancer
If you see these signs in your dog, you may need to consult a veterinarian. Cancer treatment is usually aggressive, and your dog’s treatment options may include chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Other treatments may include immunotherapy, which uses antibodies to attack tumors. These treatments are relatively new, and they didn’t exist 20 years ago.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body’s red blood cells (hemoglobin) are decreased. The cause of anemia is not a known disease. The bone marrow produces red blood cells and releases them into the bloodstream. These red blood cells circulate in the body for about three months. They are destroyed or damaged by various factors such as an infection or disease. When an animal develops anemia, it will show signs such as pale gums, increased heart rate, enlarged spleen, or heart murmur.
Kidney disease
The first step in determining whether your dog is suffering from kidney disease is to see your veterinarian. They will perform several tests on your dog to diagnose the condition. They will evaluate the dog’s overall health and examine the urine for protein loss, infection, or build-up of toxins. Thorough blood analysis will also be performed. Once a diagnosis has been made, your veterinarian will determine the best course of treatment.
Cancer in older dogs
The most common type of cancer in older dogs is hemangiosarcoma. These tumors are made up of blood vessel cells and can develop in a variety of organs, including the liver, spleen, and heart. They can also form on the skin. The tumors are quite large and can bleed internally.
Hearing loss
If you notice that your dog has trouble hearing, he may be experiencing geriatric hearing loss. Veterinarians can help by treating the symptoms with antibiotics and ear flushes. They may also perform a brainstem auditory evoked response test to detect any underlying causes. Occasionally, hearing loss is the result of an infection, which usually resolves after treatment.
