The Geriatric Bullmastiff

Old age should not be viewed as a disease – it is a stage of life, which is accompanied by a slowing down of the body’s functions.

Owners may notice a decline in activity level and mental alertness. Your dog’s hearing
and/or sight may suffer and sometimes they forget their toilet training.

There are some predictable changes that accompany ageing. Metabolic rate decreases and the calorie needs decrease by some 30 – 40% in the last 30% of the life span. Body fat increases and lean body tissue decreases. Respiratory capacity and oxygen availability also decrease. All of these things limit the physical activity level of older pets.

The body’s ability to regulate its own temperature is decreased, and older animals will often seek warmer places to lie. They may also sleep more. There can be an increase in blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels. Their immune system becomes less responsive, and they are less able to ward off infection. The incidence of tumours, both benign and malignant, increases with age. Signs of ageing become more apparent when the animal is in a poor nutritional health or when stress is increased.

There are several things owners can do to help alleviate these problems.

• Provide a high quality diet with balanced nutrition
• Moderate exercise will maintain a healthy heart, good lungs and good muscle tone
• Keep stress levels to a minimum. Maintain the usual routine, keeping changes to a minimum
• Daily grooming will alert one to new lumps, hair loss or skin changes

A complete yearly check up and physical examination by your vet is recommended. This can detect problems in the early stages when treatment is most successful.