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Senior Dogs & End of Life terms
Growing old with a dog and saying goodbye.
Canine cognitive dysfunction A brain aging disorder in older dogs, similar to dementia, that causes disorientation, sleep changes and loss of learned habits. Cataracts Cloudiness in the lens of the eye that blocks light and can lead to blindness, often inherited or linked to diabetes. Chronic kidney disease A gradual, permanent loss of kidney function that causes increased thirst and urination, weight loss and poor appetite, mainly in older dogs. Dental disease Plaque, tartar and gum infection that damage a dog's teeth and supporting bone; it is the most common health problem vets find in adult dogs. Glucosamine A supplement, often paired with chondroitin, sold to support joint cartilage; evidence of benefit in dogs is mixed and product quality varies. Mitral valve disease A slow wearing of the heart's mitral valve that lets blood leak backward, the most common heart disease in older small-breed dogs. Osteoarthritis A long-term, painful wearing down of joint cartilage that causes stiffness and reluctance to move, common in older and overweight dogs. Pet hospice Comfort-focused care for a dog with a terminal or very advanced illness, aiming at good days and little pain until the end. Quality of life scale A scoring tool owners and vets use to judge an ill or elderly dog's comfort and decide when to consider euthanasia. Senior wellness A preventive care plan for aging dogs, with more frequent exams and screening tests to catch age-related disease early. Euthanasia The humane, painless ending of a dog's life by a veterinarian, chosen to prevent suffering when quality of life can no longer be maintained.