| Title: | Old Dog Love: A Common-Sense Guide to Caring for Your Senior Dog |
| Author: | Dr. Joanna de Klerk (Veterinarian and former BBC “Young Vets” feature) |
| Genre: | Pet Care / Guidebook |
| Focus: | Comprehensive care for aging dogs, addressing physical, nutritional, and emotional needs. |
Old Dog Love is praised as an excellent and comprehensive reference designed to be a “go-to guide” for anyone caring for a dog in its later years, whether they are a first-time senior dog owner or a seasoned professional. Written by a practicing veterinarian with a special interest in pain management for aging dogs, the book emphasizes a common-sense, compassionate approach.
It acknowledges that due to advances in veterinary medicine, dogs are living longer, and a significant portion of their lives is spent in their senior years, requiring different care than a younger dog. The book aims to give owners the knowledge and tools to ensure their old friend has the highest quality of life in their “twilight years.”
The book is structured to address the full spectrum of senior dog care, from initial aging signs to end-of-life decisions. Key topics include:
Defining Seniority: Understanding “How Old is Old?” for different breeds.
Preventative Care: Guidance on necessary veterinary check-ups and diagnostic testing.
Health and Ailments: Detailed information on common age-related conditions, such as loss of senses (vision/hearing), digestive issues, and joint pain.
Nutritional Adjustments: Advice on diet, weight management, and supplements to support an aging body.
Mobility and Living Space: Tips for adjusting your home and routine to make life easier and safer for a less mobile dog.
Grooming and Exercise: Recommendations for gentle exercise and maintenance appropriate for seniors.
Emotional Support: The importance of continued bonding and recognizing changes in behavior.
The Hardest Decision: Empathetic guidance on evaluating a dog’s quality of life and making the decision to say goodbye.
Dr. de Klerk’s background as a veterinarian specializing in pain management is a significant asset, giving the advice a strong foundation in medical and practical expertise. Reviewers suggest the book successfully balances clinical information with a warm, owner-friendly tone.
One of the book’s major strengths is its focus on improving quality of life by moving beyond just medication and rest. It gives concrete, actionable tips and recommendations that owners can implement immediately to turn back the clock on their dog’s perceived age. The emphasis on recognizing that “age is just a number, not a disease” is a powerfully encouraging theme throughout the guide.
For those who are also considering the adoption of an older dog, the book includes a specific chapter on Adopting a Senior Dog, making it valuable for potential rescuers as well.
Old Dog Love is an indispensable handbook for anyone currently sharing their life with a senior dog or preparing to do so. It empowers dog owners with the knowledge to be proactive about their pet’s health and provides a supportive voice for navigating the emotional challenges of canine aging. It’s a highly recommended read for giving your old friend the best possible final years.
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