Our Favourite Product Selections at Number 1 (Australia) to support senior pets.
As our beloved pets enter their golden years, they deserve extra care and attention to maintain their quality of life. At Number 1 (Australia), we understand the unique challenges and joys of caring for senior pets, and we're here to help you ensure that these years are as fulfilling as possible.
Aging dogs and cats may show a decrease in energy, experience stiffness, or have less enthusiasm for activities they once loved. These changes are natural, but with the right strategies, we can help our pets remain vibrant and healthy as they age.
What can we do?
Research indicates that appropriate nutrition, combined with gentle exercise and mental stimulation, can significantly alleviate pain, maintain mobility, and keep cognitive function sharp in aging pets. Let’s explore some of the key dietary considerations and our top product picks to support these needs.
Stiff Joints and Impaired Mobility:
Elderly dogs are prone to arthritis, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort.
Some indications of joint-related issues include:
Slower movement during walks
Difficulty entering or exiting vehicles
Excessive licking of joints
Weight gain
Alterations in mood
Decline in muscle strength
Nutritional Support
Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two most commonly used nutraceuticals (food that provides health benefits) to alleviate pain associated with joint disorders. These nutrients are abundant in New Zealand Green Mussels (a key ingredient in all the ZIWI Peak wet and dry food) and have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA) are also found in these mussels and are widely recognised to provide benefits against an array of canine conditions and disorders. The anti-inflammatory affect that omega-3 produces can be helpful when managing aging joints. We recommend ZIWI’s Mackerel and Lamb recipe for the highest content of EPA and DHA.
Massage Support
Massage therapy can serve as a beneficial and effective treatment option for your canine companion at any stage of life, especially during their senior years. One immediate advantage of massage is the profound sense of relaxation and tranquillity it induces. This is attributed to the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for feelings of well-being. Additionally, massage helps lower levels of stress hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and norepinephrine. This dual effect not only relieves muscle tension locally but also promotes happiness and relaxation in our dogs. Witnessing this positive response in our pets can also uplift our own mood and sense of relaxation.
Whilst we recommend taking to a qualified vet or practitioner trained in massage or animal bio-mechanics, we have a lovely natural serum by Shy Tiger that owners can gently use at home and provide some comfort.
Soothe + Calm Move has been formulated to help alleviate sore joints, arthritis, and stiffness. Whether your dog is aging, prone to joint issues, or recovering from a vigorous run, this serum is your go-to for immediate relief. It can be used to complement treatments like acupuncture and professional massage.
Use: Simply apply the serum directly to the dog's coat or apply to your hands and massage in. Start with 1 pump per day and gradually increase the dosage and frequency as needed.
Cognitive Decline
As your canine companion advances in age, there are alterations in energy metabolism, the process by which nutrients are converted into energy.
Specifically, the brain's ability to metabolise glucose diminishes compared to its efficiency when your dog was younger. This decline in metabolic function can contribute to the onset of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment.
It's essential to recognise the significance of cognitive health earlier in your dog's life than you might anticipate. Studies have shown that in dogs, both overall brain metabolism and regional metabolic declines of up to 25% can be observed by the age of 6.
Dietary Support
Dietary omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the prevention of some disorders including cognitive dysfunction. Omega-3 fatty acids can help protect the brain against free radical damage and support a healthy immune system.
Antioxidants can assist joint and brain wellbeing. The brain uses a lot of oxygen, and has low levels of antioxidants, and so is vulnerable to oxidative damage and free radicals. Antioxidants work by “donating” electrons to free radicals in the body to prevent damage. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Green Lipped Mussels are all examples of antioxidants!
We love the Gold Dust Freakshake from NORM for the seniors! It is brimming with antioxidants from superfood Goji berries and it is rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). As dogs age, they struggle to use glucose in their brains (including the glucose broken down from protein sources).
Studies have shown that much-needed glucose can be replaced as an energy source for the brain by enhancing the production of ketones through supplementation of medium-chain fatty acids derived from MCTs.
The Gold Dust Freakshake is also excellent for rehydration for those seniors that need a little extra help in that department. Simply scoop, add to water and shake and it can be frozen or added to slow feeders for extra enrichment. A little bit goes a long way!
Oral Health
Ensuring optimal oral health in senior pets is paramount for their overall health and quality of life. Neglecting dental care can exacerbate existing health issues in older pets, potentially contributing to serious conditions like heart, liver, and kidney diseases. Unfortunately, some pet owners overlook the significance of dental hygiene for their aging companions, yet it should be a fundamental component of their senior pet care regimen.
What is important:
Regular dental check-ups with your vet
At home oral care – gentle toothbrushing (Shy Tigers natural tooth polish is perfect), an oral care supplement added to food such as Shy Tigers Natural Oral supplement and dental sticks designed for seniors.
Solutions for easy at home dental care!
Many owners struggle with keeping on top of the at-home care. That is why we love what we call our perfect dental trifecta.
Soothe + Clean Dog Toothpaste – The gold standard of care – toothbrushing and also one of the most difficult for owners to maintain. This is where the Shy Tiger natural toothpaste comes in. Veterinarian formulated with all-natural ingredients; this polish-style toothpaste offers a gentle yet effective way to maintain senior pet's dental health while being kind to their gums. With the unique blend of healthful plant extracts it not only polishes the teeth but also nourishes them, making even irregular brushing sessions impactful. Recommended for use 2-3 times per week.
Soothe + Clean Natural Oral Health Supplement – Easy for owners to sprinkle onto their pets food, whether wet or dry, using a standard teaspoon on a daily basis. With daily use owners can expect to see noticeable improvements, especially with bad breath, within 6 weeks. Designed to be used with the natural toothpaste.
Bell & Bone Senior Dental Sticks - The first of their kind in Australia. These dental sticks are tailored to suit dogs over 7 years of age. The sticks are softer to chew and easier to digest and low in fat and calories. Containing two clinically proven active ingredients to help break down plaque and tartar. With mint to freshen breath and support digestion along with added omega 3 and rosehip or tumeric to help fight inflammation and support joint health.
Caring for a senior pet comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right products and support, we can help to ensure they get to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Comentários