Tag Archives: exercise

Care for Our Aging Pets

AgingPetsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

You may have heard people say that the biggest problem they have with pet ownership is that pets have shorter life spans than their humans. While it is true that pets age faster than their owners, the common belief that pets age seven years for each human year is not truly accurate. How a dog or cat ages, and their longevity, varies considerably between breeds. Generally, dogs and kitties reach “senior” status at approximately seven years of age, when they are considered to be between 44 and 56 years of age depending upon their size and breed. Cats tend to live longer than dogs, and larger dog breeds tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs. Cats and dogs of all sizes have been known to age well into their 20’s. The oldest recorded age for a cat is 34 years and for a dog, 29 years.

Senior pets often require extra care, and unfortunately, too many spend their final years in shelters when owners struggle to afford increased veterinary care, become too old or ill to care for them, or sadly, simply grow tired of them. Fortunately, most pet owners consider pets family members, and are willing to invest the time, energy and resources necessary for preventive and wellness care, as well as the management of chronic health issues. Many guardians benefit from older pet ownership; enjoying their pets’ loyal companionship, calmer demeanor, and reduced exercise requirement compared with younger more energetic pets.  Attentive owners who provide lots of love, healthy food, proper exercise, high quality supplements, veterinary care, and medications when required, can help their pets live happily and comfortably, well into their senior years.

Like their human companions, older pets are creatures of habit with predictable routines. Awareness is necessary to recognize any signs of illness or changes in behavior. It’s easy to dismiss some signs of health problems, including muscle weakness, incontinence, or the loss of agility as normal signs of aging. Early detection is key to pet safety and comfort, as timely interventions may be available to cure, treat or slow the progression of potentially serious age-related health conditions, such as organ disease, diabetes and senility. As your pet ages, more visits to the veterinarian may be necessary to seek dietary advice or address possible health issues.

Common signs of aging may include graying hair, vision or hearing loss, reduced energy, joint stiffness, and behavioral changes. There are many natural solutions such as massage, water exercises, supplements, or acupuncture that can help your pets stay comfortable and mobile throughout their lives.

Tips to keep your senior pet active and happy:

Weight control. We tend to reward our pets with treats and food, which may lead to obesity as activity declines. Help your pet to stay trim and fit with the proper food for their age, as well as portion control and appropriate exercise. As well, sudden weight loss may also signal a health concern such as diabetes, cancer or kidney failure. In this case, a veterinary exam is advised.

Cognition. The loss of cognitive function may manifest in different ways, including inappropriate barking or meowing, getting lost in familiar territory, incontinence, less interaction with family members, or signs of fear and anxiety. Maintaining proper levels of exercise at all stages of life helps to support cognitive function. Mental stimulation through exercise, such as mixing up the route on daily walks, helps to maintain proper brain function. Studies show the best mental stimulation for an aging dog is playtime with a younger dog or puppy! Dietary interventions, including the use of supplements like antioxidants, and omega-3 essential fatty acids may also support healthy cognition.

Exercise. Lack of exercise results in loss of muscle tone and balance, while specific exercises help maintain strength and agility. Range of motion exercises similar to physical therapy can help to alleviate joint stiffness and make movement more comfortable. Short, frequent walks support cardiovascular health and weight maintenance. Massage can help to relieve stress, and soothe sore muscles and joints. Plus, your pet will enjoy the one-on-one attention from you.

Vision changes. Aid your pet by turning on lights in the evening and keeping their normal path free of household items, shoes, or furniture that could trip them up. A ramp or movable stairs that help them up onto the bed or into the car is also very helpful for you and your pet.

Dental care. If your pet has bad breath, it can be sign of tooth decay, gum disease, loose teeth, or an infection. Cardiac health is directly related to oral health, so watch for signs of pain or discomfort, such as changes in eating patterns, redness, bleeding, facial swelling or face rubbing on surfaces. Routine dental care and a healthy dose of probiotics can help to prevent dental problems.

Nutrition. Like humans, aging is a gradual process that is greatly affected by nutrition. As the ability to digest and absorb nutrients declines, proper senior nutrition and supplements can help to minimize the effects of aging, enhance quality of life, and maintain overall wellbeing.

  1. Glucosamine/chondroitin may help to protect cartilage and support more normal functioning in pets with osteoarthritis.
  2. Immune supporting antioxidants, including vitamins C and E as well as antioxidant-rich berries, can help to support memory and cognitive functions, especially when combined with behavioral enrichment. Oxidative damage plays a central role in the development of chronic diseases. Dietary antioxidants for aging dogs and cats may provide protection against oxidative stress and support disease prevention.
  3. EPA and DHA essential fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation in dogs with arthritis, and support cell membrane health for improved cognitive function.
  4. Higher levels of quality proteins are especially important for geriatric dogs. Optimal levels of vitamins, minerals and prebiotic fibers can provide benefits to pets of all ages.
  5. Probiotic supplements help control the critical balance of microflora in the digestive tract, relieving gas and bloating, and supporting healthy digestion, immune health and regularity.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality pet supplements in support of healthy aging and overall health:

Healthy AgingHealthy Aging Vet™ by Animal Necessity: Suitable for dogs and cats, this product provides vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and proprietary blends in support of brain, organ, digestive, vision and skin health and overall healthy aging. Age 3 – 5 years is a good starting point for all animals.

 

Daily Multi For DogsDaily Multi for Dogs by Pet Naturals® of Vermont: These yummy soft chews provide 21 healthful nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids in  support of overall wellness and immune, skin, cognitive, nerve health.

 

Ocu-GLO for Medium...Ocu-GLO™ for Medium and Large Dogs by Animal Necessity: This canine vision supplement was formulated by board certified veterinary ophthalmologists to protect vital eye cells from oxidative damage. Ocu-GLO™ provides a proprietary blend of 12 different antioxidants, plus B vitamins, CoQ10, essential fatty acids, lutein and additional vision supportive nutrients. Small dog formula also available.

 

Daily Multi Vitamin...Daily Multi Vitamin and Mineral for Cats by Dancing Paws: This unique feline vitamin and mineral complex is designed to provide optimum nutrition for everyday wellness. The formula includes vital natural nutrients as well as essential antioxidants that promote normal growth and longevity. Human quality ingredients. Potency and purity guaranteed.

 

Glyco-Flex II Bite...Glyco-Flex® II Bite-Sized Soft Chews for Dogs by Vetri-Science®: These chicken flavored canine chews are formulated to support mobility and overall joint comfort, as well as healthy joint and connective tissue functions. Recommended for adult or maturing dogs needing moderate joint support. Feline formula also available.

 

Glyco-Flex III...Glyco-Flex® III Feline Bite-Sized Chews by Vetri-Science®: This extra strength feline joint formula provides powerful support for joint comfort and connective tissue functions. Recommended for geriatric cats, and as a follow up to support normal recovery after orthopedic surgery. Canine formula also available.

 

Probiotic Everyday...Probiotic Everyday Bite-Size Chews for Cats by Vetri-Science®: One chew provides 100 million CFU of a patented, highly stable probiotic along with prebiotic FOS for digestive, immune and gastrointestinal support.

 

Probiotic Everyday...Probiotic Everyday Bite-sized Chews for Dogs by Vetri-Science®: The once daily chewable pre-and probiotic for dogs provides beneficial microorganisms for digestive, gastrointestinal and immune support.

 

References:
Watch for Signs of Health Problems in Older Dogs:  http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/health-problems-older-dogs-senior-old-age/
When You Love an Old Dog, Managing Care Can Be a Challenge. http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/02/25/515610795/when-you-love-an-old-dog-managing-care-can-be-a-challenge
Senior Dogs: Caring & Tips. http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/caring-for-older-dog/
Aging Pet Care Awareness – Separating Myths From Facts. https://www.thespruce.com/aging-pet-care-awareness-3384785
Vet offers tips to keep your old pup pain free and happy. http://www.theoaklandpress.com/lifestyle/20170730/vet-offers-tips-to-keep-your-old-pup-pain-free-and-happy
No, a ‘dog year’ isn’t equivalent to 7 human years. http://www.businessinsider.com/is-a-dog-year-equal-to-7-human-years-2014-10
How to Help Your Dog or Cat Age Gracefully. http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/how-to-help-your-dog-or-cat-age-gracefully
Aging Pet Care Awareness – Separating Myths From facts.  https://www.thespruce.com/aging-pet-care-awareness-3384785
5 Common Dog Tooth Problems. http://www.animalplanet.com/pets/healthy-pets/5-common-dog-tooth-problems/
Nutrition and Supplements for the Senior Dog. http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/nutrition-and-supplements-for-senior-dogs/

 

 

What’s Your Excuse?

excusesSusanBiconBy Susan Brown
Health & Wellness Editor
 

Perhaps you are one of the small percentage of American adults who actually got their fill of exercise this week. Or you are one of nearly 80% of us who didn’t, even though we may have had good intentions. Studies show that more than half of all Americans fail to obtain even the minimum amount of the recommended daily or weekly exercise that is so necessary to maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Why is it so hard for us to get attuned to the physical and mental health benefits of regular activity when studies show that consistent moderate intensity exercise can lead to a longer and healthier lifespan?

Some of us are time constrained, have physical limitations, lack motivation or are good at making excuses, yet most of us would choose health over illness or disease. Excuses are likely to be at the top of the list. Some suggest we don’t exercise because we are too comfortable and exercise literally takes us out of that comfort zone. We don’t want to be sweaty or cold or we don’t want to get our hair wet. People don’t want to get up early to exercise before work or they are too embarrassed to go to the gym. Perhaps it’s time to get into that uncomfortable exercise mode and get sweaty, get moving and work those muscles. Afterwards, when you are showered, your skin is glowing and your endorphins are flowing, your body will thank you, sore muscles and all. Perhaps that discomfort zone isn’t so bad after all.

Good health doesn’t happen by itself. Our bodies need care, good nutrition and exercise, and we are the only ones who can control our own choices. Exercise takes many forms and can include any activity that gets your body moving. It doesn’t have to be the same type of exercise all the time, as long as it includes some aerobic activity and muscle strengthening each week. In fact, mixing things up is a good idea and staves off boredom. For those of us who say we just hate to exercise, the trick is to find an enjoyable physical activity that doesn’t feel like a chore and then do it regularly, every day when possible.

What’s your excuse?

I don’t have time. If exercise is not a priority, we will never find the time. It’s true that many of us are time constrained and exhausted at the end of our sometimes overly long days. However, it’s likely that you can find some time, a few minutes here and there, by paying real attention to how you spend your leisure time. Are you playing video games, watching TV, constantly checking email or texting your friends? Take a hard look at how you spend your time and see if there’s not some time you could free up for a work out, even if it’s only 10 minutes. You may find it helps to add exercise to your schedule and treat it like you would any other important commitment. Take every chance you can get for exercise, whether that means biking to work, walking to the store, parking further away from your destination or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Little moments of activity all add up to a greater chance of meeting your goals and improving your health.

I’m embarrassed to go to the gym or don’t have a membership. There are lots of exercises you can do at home or in your own neighborhood. You can exercise in your own living room by making use of numerous exercise DVDs, playing sports on game consoles, following online workouts or doing calisthenics. Exercise is free for those who can get outside for a walk, a run, a bike ride or, if you are fortunate enough to live by the water, a swim. There are endless possibilities. There is likely some activity out there that interests you. If it gets you off the couch and moving, that’s all it takes.

Exercise is boring. If exercise bores you, you have yet to find the right activity. Try group fitness or social exercise such as classes, dancing or joining a walking group. Take the dog out for a run, play basketball with the kids, go for a nature walk, go window shopping or horseback riding. Just do anything that involves motion. If you can get your heart rate up by walking quickly, biking or jumping rope, all the better for your long-term health. Exercise can be fun and enjoyable when you find the right type for you!

I’m so out of shape, I don’t know where to begin. As always, begin at the beginning and don’t be too hard on yourself. All it takes is to open the front door and step out. Perhaps you are overweight or have an injury or health issue. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting an exercise program if you are a newbie, but just about everyone has the capacity to perform some sort of physical activity. Start slow and increase a little every day. You may be surprised at the improvements in your confidence and overall wellness when you stick with a routine.

I lack motivation. Some of us with good intentions simply do too much too soon, get discouraged and quit before we barely get started. Staying active is a life long journey that takes time and focus. Others of us get discouraged when we don’t see progress or lose weight quickly enough. Once again, it takes time for the body to strengthen, lose fat and build muscle. It’s not unusual for it to take 12 weeks or more to see real changes. Don’t give up! Focus on the total health benefits including increased cardio fitness, lowered blood pressure, positive mental focus and more regulated blood sugar levels.

I don’t have the energy. When you’re tired and stressed it is hard to get started or keep going. This may sound strange, but the cure for low energy may just be more exercise. Regular exercise improves muscle strength and endurance and delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your cells and tissues. As your cardiovascular efficiency improves, you will find you actually have more energy as you go about your day. What’s more, your sex life may also improve as you begin to feel more energized and feel better about your total body image.

It’s raining, or it’s hot or it’s too cold. Here’s where getting out of the comfort zone comes into play. Unless you are a witch, you won’t melt if you get wet and you can dress appropriately for the weather. As long as it’s not pouring, a walk in the rain can be exhilarating. If you really can’t stand being wet or cold or hot, exercise indoors, go walk the mall, take an aerobics or yoga class or walk the treadmill.

As you can see, for every reason that you can come up with not to exercise, there’s a solution. If you really want a healthy life, don’t let these excuses derail your commitment for one more day. How much is enough? According to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition, any activity that uses energy, including daily life activities, counts towards overall fitness. Ideally, strive for moderately intense cardio exercise for 30 minutes, 5 days per week, or vigorous intense cardio for 20 minutes, 3 days per week. Include 8 – 10 strength training exercises, 8 – 12 reps each, twice per week. When you think about it, the time commitment is relatively small but the benefits of improved health and longevity are enormous.

References:
The Real Reason We Don’t Exercise.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/shrink/201411/the-real-reason-we-dont-exercise
Exercise:  7 benefits of regular physical activity. 
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389
CDC:  80 percent of American adults don’t get recommended exercise.  http://www.cbsnews.com/news/cdc-80-percent-of-american-adults-dont-get-recommended-exercise/
Most Common Reasons People Stop Exercising (And What You Can Do About Them!)
http://www.secondscount.org/heart-resources/heart-resources-detail?cid=e6d0293d-311f-49d0-bd78-d4e745e4d6c4
Physical Activity Guidelines For Americans.
http://www.secondscount.org/heart-resources/heart-resources-detail?cid=e6d0293d-311f-49d0-bd78-d4e745e4d6c4

WEEK 3: 90-Day Healthy Weight Challenge

PSCteam2JenniferIconBy Jennifer Bement
Social Media Manager
 

As we mentioned in our last newsletter, much of our staff have taken up the challenge of working toward a healthy weight. Each participant was given the following supplements:  Nordic Naturals ProOmega Lemon EPA/DHA (fish oil), Douglas Laboratories Multi-Probiotic 15 billion, Enzymedica Digest Gold (a potent digestive enzyme,) and Metagenics PhytoMulti, a multivitamin and mineral formula. Additionally they were divided into three groups based on the weight loss supplement that was deemed best for them by our staff nurse Jacquie Eubanks.  Each received one of the following: Ortho Molecular CLA, which supports reducing body fat while increasing muscle tone; Douglas Laboratories Super HCA (garcinia cambogia extract), which aids in normal appetite regulation; or Integrative Therapeutics 7-KETO Lean, which helps burn fat, not muscle, and promotes weight loss.

As the challenge moves into its third week, the team continues to amaze withWalkers2 their hard work, leading to great results. For Week 3, the team collectively walked/ran 42.5 miles and did yard work, housework, barn chores, yoga, kick boxing, aerobics, water aerobics, Ta Chi, and stair work for an amazing 47 hours! Weigh-in at the end of Week 3 showed a loss of 69 pounds!

Nurse Jacquie has been guiding each team member through the process with weekly private meetings to assess their progress. “I am thrilled with the results we are getting” she exclaimed. “Not only are they starting to think about the food they are consuming, but this week really showed that they are willing to work for the results.”