A recent study conducted by the University of Liverpool sheds light on a concerning trend: owners often overlook serious health issues in their aging dogs, mistakenly attributing them to normal aging processes. The research underscores a significant gap between veterinary professionals and pet owners in understanding the preventive healthcare needs of senior pets, emphasizing the need for comprehensive education programs.
The study, published in Frontiers UK, surveyed over 600 dog owners and more than 300 veterinary professionals across the United Kingdom. Owners were asked to identify various clinical signs in their older dogs and assess the urgency of seeking veterinary care for these symptoms.
Results revealed a disparity between owners and vets regarding the frequency of veterinary visits and the necessity of vaccinations for senior dogs. While most veterinarians emphasized the importance of regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations for senior pets, many owners believed that older dogs only required annual visits to the vet.
Common clinical signs reported by owners included slowing down on walks, dental issues such as calculus, and stiffness on rising. However, the study found that owners were less likely to seek veterinary care for certain symptoms, such as bad breath, musculoskeletal issues, and excessive sleeping, which are often dismissed as signs of normal aging.
The study authors emphasized the need for improved communication between owners and veterinarians to ensure that senior dogs receive appropriate medical care. Carri Westgarth, a co-author of the study, highlighted the importance of addressing misconceptions about senior dog health and promoting preventive healthcare measures.
The study was funded by BSAVA PetSavers, and it cited the development of a canine toolkit by the charity as a valuable resource for enhancing owner education. Sarah Williams from BSAVA PetSavers emphasized the potential of screening tools and educational resources to improve owner engagement with veterinary care and ultimately enhance the welfare and longevity of senior dogs.
