We expect certain changes to occur in an animal's body as the
animal ages. These changes may not be the same in each animal
species. In some animals (e.g.; toy breeds of dogs) changes in
the heart are common, whereas in other animals (cats), the
kidneys may be one of the first organs to show signs of aging.
We can help older animals to adapt to these changes in a variety
of ways: diagnosing problems early, use of appropriate
medications and supplements, modifying the dog's environment,
and changing the way in which we interact with our older
friends. Change in nutritional needs As dogs age, their
metabolism changes and their need for calories decreases. In
general, their maintenance energy requirement decreases by about
20%. Because their activity usually decreases as well, their
energy needs are decreased by another 10-20%. If we feed older
dogs the same amount we fed them when they were young, they will
gain weight. As the body's metabolism changes, it is more common
for the body to lay down fat. This tende