#Middlebury
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My Border Collie Angus is 12 years old, so he’s getting along. Until a few months ago he could whip along as fast as anything and had plenty of energy. At feeding time, he would jump up and down waiting for his food. However, lately he runs very little, seems to have little energy and just waits patiently for his food. The veterinarian said he has probably developed arthritis, and it’s just to be expected at his age. What do you think? – Carl in Madison, Wisconsin
DEAR CARL: Ask the veterinarian to run some tests. While yes, 12 years is getting up into senior years for a dog, Angus’ sudden change from an energetic adventurer to a lethargic homebody doesn’t seem normal. If the vet doesn’t want to do any tests, go to a different vet.
Angus may indeed have arthritis or just be slowing down, but there could be an underlying cause that can be treated. Diseases of age, like thyroid disorder, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis could be at work. A tick-borne disease (Lyme disease being just one of several) can cause symptoms similar to arthritis or neurological illness. There are other possibilities that should be considered, like cancer.
Even if an illness or condition can’t be completely cured, there’s a good chance it can be managed. Angus shouldn’t have to slow down or stop doing the things he loves just because of an assumption that he’s too old. Get more tests, get a more detailed diagnosis of what may be causing Angus’ loss of energy, and work forward from there to rebuild his health.
Send your questions or pet care tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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