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How do we keep our dogs fit and healthy over the long haul? We include top-quality food in their diet and keep snacks and treats down to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake to keep weight in check and prevent obesity and joint issues. Then there’s regular exercise for muscle health and mental stimulation. And of course, regular vet checks and appropriate vaccines to protect them from viruses and disease. But for those of us with four-legged family members, we already know that time marches on and aging can often claim our dog’s mobility, sensory skills, and comfort far earlier than we could ever want.

That was, until veterinary science decided it was time to look for a time machine. Actually, an anti-aging strategy that could be applied universally to dogs of all breeds, ages, and parental income levels. Now, research into what can best be described as a silver bullet to canine aging began almost 10 years ago, but recent developments are suggesting the outcome is “promising,” and bigger still, coveted FDA approval is now in place.

The biotech company behind this long-awaited advancement is San Francisco-based Loyal, which has developed both a periodic injectable (LOY-001) and daily pill-based (LOY-002) format that target age-related metabolic issues and hormones. The ultimate goal? To enhance something the pet industry refers to as “healthspan,” which refers to a longer life in a healthier state. Now, we’re not talking about taking your pooch into his twenties, but simply adding a few more healthy years.

If you’re intrigued about how to get started, speak with your vet to come up with the right plan for your pet. But in the meantime, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your pup as active and healthy as possible, for as long as possible.

Let’s Start with Nutrition

As your dog ages, his sense of smell and taste diminish, and that’s why you want to feed him flavorful, nutrient-rich options specifically formulated to meet the needs of a senior dog. And this means high-quality proteins, increased fibre, and lower calories. It also includes adding supplements such as Omega 3’s, antioxidants, as well as prebiotics and probiotics to help with digestion and boost his immune system.

Top-quality brands such as vet-recommended Hills Science Diet feature a balance of vitamins and minerals that make it easy to support heart and kidney health function on a daily basis. And when it comes to loading up on the Omegas (3, 6, and 9), this 100% natural salmon oil supplement from Pets Purest delivers big time. While we typically associate these oils with healthy skin and a lustrous coat, the fatty acids also support joint health – ideal for aging dogs – and are important to incorporate into a daily regimen.

So, Let’s Talk About Those Supplements

Anyone living with an older pooch already knows the importance of glucosamine in your pet’s diet. Now, if you’re wondering what exactly this wonder ingredient is all about, it’s an amino sugar that helps build cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and the buffering fluid surrounding your pet’s joints. It’s included in many of today’s senior dog food formulations; however, if you’re looking for a little extra boost, adding something like this glucosamine-rich dog chew from PetLab is the way to go. High Levels of friction-reducing glucosamine, turmeric, and calcium fructoborate to support normal inflammatory response are delivered to your pet in an easy-to-use, pork-flavored chew.

Now, if you’re living with a senior dog, odds are you already know what a pooch with a dodgy tummy can be like. Not only is it hard for them to keep their food down, but also to absorb the nutrients needed to stay healthy. And that’s why introducing probiotics into his diet is the way to go. We love this immune support dog chew from Zesty Paws with dog probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus that help support a healthy gut and digestive health, as well as a whole food yeast called fermentate that’s designed to strengthen your buddy’s immune system.

And when it comes to treats, consider crunchy carrot sticks, fibre-rich dried pumpkin or sweet potato chews, or maybe these air-dried, grain-free, high-protein toppers from Badlands Ranch. All are low-cal and perfect for perking up your pet’s diet.

Keeping Things Active

Getting your dog outdoors for a little exercise and a lot of mental stimulation has never been more important than when they begin to age. In fact, it’s crucial when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping his mind alert as he moves into the senior years. If your pet’s heart is in it to win it… but the legs just can’t keep up; it’s time to introduce a dog lift harness that allows you to support and stabilize him as he walks. This user-friendly option from Coodeo is not only adjustable and easy to adapt to the size and weight of your pet but also breathable and totally comfy for him to wear on a daily basis.

However, if mobility issues prevent him from using a lift harness or sling, it may be time to invest in one of the fun little dog strollers, such as this three-wheel option from BestPet. A 360-degree swivel front wheel keeps this unit easy to manoeuver while a lower basket is perfect for stashing walking supplies – like water, bowls, treats, and more. It’s lightweight, folds down flat to tuck into the back of your vehicle, and best of all, it’s super-affordable.