Sign #4: Your dog is exposed to any of the following toxins
If your dog has access or repeated exposure to any of the following, their life could be at-risk:
- Foods: Chocolate, Xylitol (artificial sweetener), grapes & raisins, & macadamia nuts. If your dog eats any of these foods, seek help immediately!
- Chemicals: Rodenticides, lawn weed treatments, spackle, paint, fertilizers, and adhesives.
- Medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofin (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve)
The above is not an exhaustive list. When in down, contact your vet immediately.
Sign #5: Your dog begins to lose their mobility at a young age
Sadly, many dogs begin an early decline when their joints prematurely age. When a dog’s joints ache, they begin moving less frequently. Moving less frequently causes their joints to hurt even more, and the spiral continues, often resulting in an early death. On top of keeping your dog at a healthy weight, many veterinarians recommend giving a glucosamine or Hemp supplement as early as age 7. (even earlier for large breed dogs)
Common signs of mobility loss include:
- Slower to rise or greet you when you come home
- Avoidance of hard, slipper floors or stairs
- Decrease in activity for no apparent reason
- Loss of appetitive
- Lethargy
- Limping or stiffness
- Excessive licking of a joint