Really active older dogs

[GRNWNV]

I have a BT named Sophie, and she is the only thing I truly love in this world.
She is almost 9 years old, and still as active and happy as a puppy. Everyone that meets her is surprised to hear that she is so old.
She is starting to have a really tough time finding the ball when I throw it for her, even when it lands right next to her.
I am also worried that she will wear out her joints before her energy level catches up.
Anyone else having this same dilemma? Any suggestions?

[deletedo1m]

Have you consulted your vet about the sight issues and your joint worries?

[STOICH]

It's something you should really discuss with your vet, but here's my thoughts:

-You say she has trouble 'finding' the ball; are you saying her vision is becoming bad? Not really sure I follow what you mean with that statement.

-In regards to joints, it's something that should be taken into account when exercising the dog or doing any sort of activities. Things like hardwood floors, jumping, stairs, long walks, etc should be reduced or modified to help keep impact off the joints. Are you saying she is showing signs of arthritis or just asking in general due to her current age and activity?

If you are worried that her current activities are stressing her joints (showing signs of soreness), you really need to see a vet and/or start to modify and maybe even limit certain activities which impact the joints the most.

Luckily for joints, there are supplements out there that do wonders for dogs with joint issue. Specifically: Glucosamine with Chondroitin, Omega Acids, MSM. These truly do work and to the point where some see a complete turn around. The problem is getting the owner to restrict activity after the effectiveness kicks in. Once someone sees their dog jump for the first time after a long period of joint issues, they want to start treating the dog like a puppy again. You must still reduce and restrict activity in order for the supplement to help extend quality of life stricken with joint issues. Again, it's best to get with your vet -- or even better a therapist -- to identify what would be best for your dog.

[GRNWNV]

I have recently moved cities, so I am still shopping around for a new vet.

Regarding the ball, yes I think she is losing her sight. Her eyes are starting to get a bit cloudy, and I understand that most Bostons have vision problems later in life.

I would like to limit her activity, but she is so bonkers unless she gets to run around the park for a bit. I am fortunate enough to live on a dog park, so now we go for 2 or 3 short trips instead of 1 longer one.

[STOICH]

The vet will be the best place to discuss both of these issues (vision and joints) and the best way to tackle it.

Dogs typically hide pain really well, so it's important to know if your dog is truly have joint pain. And if so, the best way to modify their lifestyle to help the problem from getting worse than it needs to be.

Have you noticed any issues with her getting up after a periods of laying down?

[eurotekms]

I've thought about this as well - have a 2 y.o. JRT/Itl GH and he runs like a maniac, and has a 7' vertical.

I think there's some really good advice in this thread.


Sorry to hear about her sight. If it's any help, I've dog sat for a completely blind mutt a few times and she did just fine- As long as you don't leave furniture out of place.