Old age is not a disease As a result of advances in veterinary
medicine, more knowledgeable care and improved nutrition, dogs
are now living much longer, healthier lives. But, just as for
humans, the passage of time has its effects, and you may begin
to notice that your once-frisky pet seems to have slowed down a
bit. Being aware of the natural changes that can occur as your
dog reaches his or her golden years, as well as what you can do
to help keep your pet as healthy, active and comfortable as
possible, can ensure that you both enjoy this final stage in
your dog's life to the fullest. How-and when-will I know that my
dog is getting "old"? As dogs move into the geriatric phase of
their lives, they experience gradual changes that are remarkably
like those of aging humans: hair turns grey, their bodies are
not as limber and reflexes not as sharp as they once were,
hearing, eyesight and the sense of smell may deteriorate and
energy levels, as well as attention spans, seem to diminish. In
fact, the first sign o