Giving Your Brittany A Happy Old Age

There is something very heart-warming in the sight of an aged dog that is loved and well-cared for. True, it is sad to realize that you may not have him with you so very much longer, but there is great satisfaction in knowing that you have contributed to his long and happy life by your affection and attention. At first you won't realize that your dog is getting old.

Then, one day you will notice that he has slowed down in his responses; he doesn't seem to hear very well, or is a little slow to recognize you. In the field he becomes less positive on game and you suspect that his "nose" is not as good as usual. He finds it difficult to go up or down the stairs and he gets up stiffly from his nap instead of with his usual bounce. You begin to count the years and you are surprised at the number. They have flown by so swiftly! But now you can do many things for your aging dog to give him a com­fortable and healthy old age and, to you, a rewarding one.

First of all, watch your dog's diet. Some Brittanys, like other individuals of spaniel breeds, have a tendency to overeat. Remember that because of reduced activity and metabolic rate, the caloric requirements of the older dog are less. The diet should be complete, but lessen the amounts to avoid obesity. Fat levels should be comparatively low and protein high. Giving supplementary vitamins of the B group and vitamin A will be very helpful to your aged dog. An elderly dog has less resistance to stress of any kind.

He feels temperature changes much more than the young­ster. Be sure he has plenty of bedding and a warm place to sleep in chilly weather and shield him from drafts. Perhaps he has been trained to stay off the furniture but in his old age he will love the comfort of a special soft chair to rest in. It isn't too much to ask that he be given some special privi­leges now and he will thrive on them. Old dogs sometimes forget their training. Don't be harsh, he cannot help it. Sometimes an older dog will not drink enough water. Try to find some liquid he likes, such as broths or milk to make up for the lack. Constipation may occur. Relieve it when necessary by a dose of milk of magnesia or mineral oil.