Pannus, known as Chronic Superficial Keratitis, is an autoimmune disease frequently seen in older German Shepherds. Pannus is a condition that affects the cornea (the clear part of the eye), which typically manifests as a reddish-brown, non-painful lesion on the eye lens and surrounding tissues. Both eyes are typically affected. In some cases, the lesions can grow quite large and affect your dog's vision. While there is no cure for Pannus, there are ways to manage it and keep your fur friend comfortable. In this #LifeWithOldDogs® blog post and podcast, we'll cover the"ins and outs" of Pannus in older German Shepherds. What Causes Pannus? Pannus is thought to be a hereditary condition that progresses as our dog ages. A once-healthy cornea becomes overrun by blood vessels and scar tissue, which usually starts from the lower and outer cornea and progresses until the eye is consumed, leading to blindness. Other factors that may lead to diagnosing Pannus are extensive exposure to UV rays, higher altitudes, and smoke. What Are The Signs Of Pannus? Redness and/or cloudiness at the outer edge of the cornea. Redness and thickening of the third eyelid Thickening of tissue over the eye The cornea can look pink, white, or brown Eye opaqueness Excessive tearing Visual impairment How Is Pannus Diagnosed? If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms in your dog's eyes, it's best to take him to your trusted veterinarian for a check-up. Once there, your vet will check for clinical signs and take his medical history and breed into consideration to come up with a diagnosis. Your vet may also incorporate additional testing, such as cornea staining to determine the severity of the damage, intraocular pressure testing, or cornea scraping. Although there is no definitive test for Pannus, testing is used to rule out other eye diseases. Treatment for Pannus: Since there is no cure for Pannus, treatment involves routinely applying topical anti-inflammatory medications such as cyclosporine, which stops the cornea and third eyelid inflammation. Additionally, topical steroids such as dexamethasone are used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, for advato remove the scar tissue or radiation therapy with Sr-90 may be utilized to achievefor advanced Pannus long-term benefits. And lastly, simple steps and tools such as keeping your dog out of direct sunlight during the strongest points of the day or buying him a snazzy pair of *Doggles to keep the sun out of his eyes will help keep Pannus in check, as will keeping his living environment smoke-free. * Doggles are vet recommended for physical protection and protection from UV light. Prognosis For Senior German Shepherds With Pannus The prognosis hinges upon early diagnosis and proper treatment. Remember, this IS a progressive disease, so treatment is only going to slow the progression, not stop it completely. But with proper treatment, your dog can enjoy years where he is can still enjoy doing all the things he loves to do. To listen to this week's #LifeWithOldDogs® podcast episode that coincides with this blog post, click here: https://www.wpsgss.org/podcast/episode/78517c78/brown-goo-in-your-senior-german-shepherds-eyes-it-could-be-pannus ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

Dental issues can be a problem for older German Shepherds, and the effects of poor oral care can be felt throughout the entire body. Like us, as our German Shepherds age, their teeth may start to wear down and decay, and gums may not be as healthy as they once were, which can lead to pain, infection, loss of teeth, and other health problems which can be life-threatening. Prevention is key, but sometimes you can do everything right, and your frosty-muzzled fur friend can still suffer from dental issues. If you have an older German Shepherd, it's important to look for signs of dental issues and take the steps necessary to correct them as soon as possible. In this #lifewitholddogs® blog post, we'll discuss common dental problems of older German Shepherds and offer tips for treating and preventing them. What are the most common dental issues in older German Shepherds? Plaque: Plaque is caused by food and bacteria that build up on teeth over time if the teeth are not brushed regularly. Tartar: Tartar is what happens when plaque is not removed regularly from teeth. The plaque then mixes with saliva and forms a hard deposit on the teeth that needs to be scrapped or chipped off with special dental tools. Basically, all the food particles and bacteria that are not removed regularly solidify to the teeth creating an encasing of toxins and stench that your fur friend then lives with day in and day out. Yuck! Gingivitis: is an irritation and inflammation of the gums caused by plaque, bacteria, and toxins that get under the gums. The gums can become so infected with Gingivitis that they may become painful and bleed. Gingivitis is an early stage of Periodontal disease. Root Abscess is caused by bacteria entering an exposed root canal of a tooth. The root canal may be exposed because of severe tooth decay or because of a chipped or broken tooth. Periodontal Disease: This is the most common disease in dogs, with an estimated 90% of dogs having some degree of periodontal disease before they are five years old. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria build-up that slowly destroys your fur friend's teeth, gums, and even the bones supporting the mouth, such as the jaw. Periodontal disease can be painful and cause a host of problems, which can become life-threatening. There are four stages of Periodontal disease, which are: 1) Gingivitis, 2) About 25% of teeth and bone loss, 3) 25 - 50% of tooth and bone loss, 4) More than half of all teeth are loose or missing. Stage one, Gingivitis, is the only stage of periodontal disease that is reversible and stages two and three can be maintained so they don't progress to the final stage. Loss of teeth: Is caused by periodontal disease or trauma What are the signs of dental Issues in older German Shepherds? Bad breath Drooling Reluctant to eat Can't chew when eating Reluctant to play with toys Weight loss Rubbing mouth with a paw or against another object Tooth discoloration Tartar Gums that are red, irritated, swollen, and perhaps bleeding Missing teeth Discharge from the nose and possibly eye Facial swelling Being snappish or aggressive Visibly sick How are Dental Issues Diagnosed? Your trusted veterinarian will perform a complete dental exam, which most likely means that your older German Shepherd must undergo anesthesia. At that point, your vet will visually inspect the teeth and gums, perform X-rays if needed, and check for bone loss. She may even perform the dental work needed at this time. What happens if you ignore dental issues in your older German Shepherds? Our older German Shepherds are no different than us in the sense that if we have bad teeth or infected gums, it hurts, and if we let it go, it manifests into bigger problems that can make us unwell and make our lives miserable. The problems can range from tooth and jaw pain and deterioration, tooth abscesses, sinus infections, eyesight issues, abscesses on the face, cancer, and organ damage that can be life-threatening. So as you can see, dental issues are no joke and need to be addressed if you want your older German Shepherd to live his best life at all times. Steps to prevent dental issues in older German Shepherds: Brush your dog's teeth daily with a soft bristle brush, silicone finger brush, and canine specified toothpaste. Kibble (high quality, of course) is a natural way to scrape any tartar build-up off teeth as your dog eats. Give your dog something appropriate to chew on but make sure it is approved by Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) because not all chew toys are suitable for your dog's teeth. Regular check-ups are your best defense in maintaining healthy teeth and gums in your dog as they age. Check-ups may include professional cleaning, scaling of teeth and gums, and X Rays. You can find dental care products we use on our Amazon Preferred Product list. This is not a donation list for us. This is a list of products we use for the older German Shepherd residents here at the sanctuary. To check it out, click on the link. => => =. https://www.amazon.com/ideas/amzn1.account.AF7RX6Y5S3CLIHWQSMNPSIKSFIVA/SEGUAKUHUS62?type=explore&ref=idea_cp_vl_ov_d I hope this blog post has been informative and helped you understand the importance of oral care in your older German Shepherd. Regular brushing is important for maintaining good dental health, so it is recommended that you get your German Shepherd used to brushing at an early age if possible. Furthermore, If your older German Shepherd needs professional help or more advanced treatment such as a cleaning procedure which should be done once a year, or advanced gum care, be sure to visit your trusted veterinarian. And remember that regular tooth and gum cleanings can prevent future problems from developing, saving your older German Shepherd from suffering and you from shelling out a ton of money in the long run. To listen to the coinciding podcast, click on the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1771634/9926964-senior-german-shepherds-and-dental-issues-the-impact-of-bad-teeth-and-gums-goes-beyond-the-mouth.mp3?download=true ***** BONUS******* You don't have to run out to buy toothpaste for your dog, although you can if you choose. Instead, you can make doggy toothpaste with all-natural ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Get the recipe here => => => 1/4 cup of unrefined, cold-processed, organic coconut oil 3 tablespoons of baking soda (abrasive & deodorizes) 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (abrasive & for taste) Soften coconut oil but do not melt it into a liquid, then mix in other ingredients. Cover and keep at room temperature. Use daily. *EXTRA* EXTRA* If you are wondering if dental issues are covered under pet insurance, or about pet insurance altogether, check out this article, "Top 9 Best Pet Insurance Companies". https://www.thisoldhouse.com/home-finances/reviews/best-pet-insurance ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

There is much discussion these days around the diagnosis of dementia in humans. But what about our canine companions? Like people, dogs can suffer from Canine Cognitive Disorder, otherwise known as dog dementia. This degenerative brain condition results in impaired memory, strange or unexplained behavior, and weakened thinking skills. It is estimated that 14 to 30 percent of older dogs will develop dog dementia. And while the cause of dementia in dogs is not always clear, there are some things you can do to help your furry friend if you think he may be experiencing dog dementia. In this #Lifewitholddogs blog post, we’ll discuss what dog dementia is, how to recognize the symptoms, and ways to help your older German Shepherd live his best life despite the condition. What is dementia in dogs? Like dementia in humans, dog dementia is not an actual disease in and of itself but rather a broad term used to describe the inability to remember or think correctly or make rational decisions that affect everyday lives. Dog dementia can strike at any age, but it is most commonly seen in older dogs. For larger breeds, such as German Shepherds, that would be seven to eight years of age, but more likely towards ten and older. What are the signs of dog dementia? Although the progression of dog dementia can be insidious, the most common symptoms are: Confusion Anxiety Disorientation (getting stuck in places like behind a door and can’t figure out how to get out) Not following normal routines Getting lost in familiar spaces Staring at nothing Barking for no reason/Barking excessively Changes in sleep/wake cycle (sundowning) Pacing, circling, and wandering aimlessly Can’t recall where the location of the food/water bowl Fecal or urinary incontinence Increased irritability and anxiety Not recognizing dog parents or other household dogs How is Dog Dementia Diagnosed? Although there is no definitive test for dog dementia, it is still essential to take your older German Shepherd to your trusted veterinarian to have a complete medical workup which may include diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI, to rule out anything else, and to come up with a treatment plan for dementia. Steps you can take to help your senior German Shepherd with dementia. NOTE: Treatment focuses on slowing the rate of cognitive decline. Diet Change Your veterinarian may recommend a specific commercial brand diet formulated specifically for improving cognitive function. But you can also take matters into your own hands by adding antioxidants and omega-3 polyunsaturated fats, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), such as coconut oil, to your dog’s home-cooked food, which have shown to be beneficial in slowing the progress of dog dementia. 2. Adding Vitamins and Supplements SAMe Small studies have shown that SAMe may improve mood and cognition. CoQ10, which is a powerful antioxidant that is found in the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver and fades as our dog ages L- Carnitine which transports long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria to be oxidized for energy production Vitamins B, C, and E Omega 3 Fatty acid CBD oil, which has been shown to protect the brain from cell death caused by toxins and free radicals and also helps reduce anxiety Melatonin 3. Medication Selegiline is used to control the clinical symptoms of dog dementia. Trazodone, which can help with anxiety and sleep/wake disturbances, as well as pacing 4. Mental Stimulation Mental Enrichment & Physical Exercise (Within reason) Puzzles such as a snuffle mat LickiMat New Toys Playing ball Routine exercise that is physically appropriate such as walking or swimming Car Rides Training such as nose work Obstacle course Playdate with other well-behaved dogs What to Avoid As your older German Shepherd’s dementia progresses: Keep his routine the same Don’t move furniture or his bedding Keep his food/water bowl in the same location Monitor your dog at all times Don’t leave doors open such as exterior, basement, and garage doors. Block off stairs with baby gates Maintain regular visits with your trusted veterinarian Above all, BE PATIENT Preventing Dog Dementia Maintain regular exercise throughout your German Shepherd’s lifetime, and don’t allow him to become a couch potato Keep your German Shepherd mentally engaged by going to new places, smelling new smells, meeting new people and dogs, and learning new tasks such as nose work. Give your German Shepherd jobs such as picking up toys or closing a door (clearly, this requires training, but that’s the point). If you have a farm, teach your German Shepherd to herd. :) Maintain a healthy diet, such as a nutritionally balanced human-grade, whole-food diet that offers variety and is packed with brain health nutrients Be sure to incorporate routine veterinary checkups. Dog dementia can be unsettling for you to witness and downright frightening for your older German Shepherd to have to go through, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t be proactive in helping your fur friend stay as comfortable for as long as possible. Our goal is to help arm you with the knowledge to do just that so you can keep enjoying each other’s company and making wonderful memories together. References: Physical signs of canine cognitive dysfunction J Vet Med Sci. 2019 Dec; 81(12): 1829–1834. Published online 2019 Nov 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6943310/?&_ga=2.136070578.286162602.1641444682-45603194.1641444682 Treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction with novel butyrylcholinesterase inhibitor Published: Sept 13, 2021 ttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-97404-2 Nutritional support for the aging canine brain Valarie V. Tynes, DVM, DACVB, DACAW -May 14, 2021 https://ivcjournal.com/aging-canine-brain/ Not all CBD oil is created equal. There’s a lot of crap out there, so you have to know what you are buying to ensure the comfort you seek for your older German Shepherd is actually in the bottle you’re buying, and so you’re not just throwing your money out the window. We have done just that, and it doesn’t feel good. What we have found to work are Dr. HempDog hemp oil tinctures. If you would like to try it, you can get 10% off on us by going to: https://drhempdog.com/discount/WOODYSPLACE and enter discount code “WOODYSPLACE” Link to correlating #Lifewitholddogs podcast: ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the “20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds” series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, otherwise known as Bloat, Gastric Torsion, or GDV, is a life-threatening medical condition that is the second leading cause of death in dogs behind cancer. It is a condition primarily found in large dogs with deep chests, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, St. Bernards, Boxers, Basset Hounds, and Weimaraners, to name a few. However, that is not to say that other dogs can’t succumb to GDV as well because any dog with a history (hereditary) of GDV is potentially susceptible. What physically happens to a dog when GDV strikes? The dog’s stomach becomes filled with contents such as excessive gas, food, water, and even foam, causing it to distend to abnormal proportions (this is the dilation or bloat part of GDV). Next, the stomach twists (this is the volvulus or torsion part), thereby trapping the excess gas and other contents inside the stomach. When this happens, there is no way for the dog to alleviate the pressure because the stomach has twisted so much (sometimes the rotation is 360 degrees) that there is no way the dog can vomit or even belch. As the GDV progresses (which is usually quite rapid), the stomach begins to put pressure on all the surrounding organs. Additionally, no blood can pass through the stomach lining, which means there is a greater risk for hypotension, decreased blood return to the heart, and decreased blood flow to other bodily organs, some of which help remove toxins and absorb bacteria from the blood. GDV is so detrimental to your dog’s health that if not treated immediately, it can lead to blood poisoning, peritonitis, and even death. What causes Gastric Dilatation Volvulus in dogs? As mentioned previously, hereditary and physical design can make one dog more prone to GDV than another. There are additional factors such as: Being an older male dog Eating kibble only Eating one large meal a day Eating quickly Eating or drinking too much at one time Eating then exercising too soon after Eating or drinking out of an elevated bowl A dog who has a nervous personality Dogs with a history of underlying digestive issues What are the symptoms of Gastric Dilatation Volvulus in dogs? Restlessness Pacing Crying/whining Inability or unwillingness to lay down Panting and possibly drooling Trying to vomit Trying to release their bowels Lethargy If the dog can eliminate, consistency changes in feces and possibly blood. Gagging Teeth clenched Pale gums Foam around mouth Stomach distention Rapid heartbeat Right-click on this image to save it to your computer. You can print it out and keep it where you will see it. Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastric Dilation Volvulus. It can not be stated enough that time is of the essence if you suspect your dog is bloating. DO NOT WAIT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP BECAUSE YOUR DOG’S LIFE DEPENDS ON IT! Some vets recommend keeping Simethicone (Gas X) on hand and giving it to your dog at the first signs of GDV while transporting your dog to the ER vet. A typical dosage for larger dogs is 80 milligrams but check with your vet first. Once your dog is in the care of a medical team, they will do a physical, run blood work, and take X-rays to determine whether or not your dog is experiencing GDV or if it is something else. They will also decompress your dog’s stomach and possibly give him pain medication, steroids, and IV fluids. If your dog has stomach dilation alone, then a long tube will be inserted through his mouth to alleviate the pressure in the stomach. If it is full-blown GDV, your dog will require surgery to correct the condition, or he will surely perish within 24 hours or less. Your dog has survived the surgery; now what? Once your dog has experienced GDV, he will be prone to it again. The good news is that during the surgery, your dog’s medical team should have performed a surgical procedure in which the stomach is sutured to the abdominal wall or the diaphragm to ensure that it stays in place. The surgery is called gastropexy. So, while your dog’s stomach may dilate in the future, it won’t twist. Sometimes when your dog is young and getting spayed or neutered, the medical team will ask you if you want your dog’s stomach tacked down while they already have your dog under anesthesia. Preventing GDV is the reason they are asking you this. Your dog’s medical team will want to keep him for a few days to ensure he is stable and on his way to recovery. During his recovery, you may be able to visit your dog if permitted. Still, if your dog becomes upset over your presence and wants to go home, it may be in his best interest for you to wait it out at home and let him recover fully before seeing him. If he is okay with you visiting, then, by all means, visit. Once you get the green light to bring your dog home be mindful that he just endured a major life-altering event and will not be himself for days, maybe even weeks to come, so don’t force him to do things he’s not ready for, like jumping up into the car or taking long hikes Let him take his time recovering. Preventing Gastric Dilation Volvulus While not all cases of GDV can be prevented, there are some actions you can take to reduce your dog’s chance of bloating. Feed your dog several small meals throughout the day Add canned food to your dog’s kibble to reduce the amount of air swallowed Use a special bowl designed for dogs who eat too quickly Monitor how much water your dog is drinking, and do not allow him to drink large amounts Do not add gas-promoting foods to your dog’s diet Do not use an elevated food or water dish Wait an hour before and after a meal to exercise your dog Stick to a low-fat diet Do not put your dog in stressful situations; if he is stressed, change his environment to a calm one. During sterilization of your dog, have your Veterinarian perform a gastropexy. Keep Gas X on hand Here at Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, we’ve had several dogs bloat (that’s several too many as far as we are concerned), and in all but one instance, they were older male German Shepherds. One was an older female German Shepherd. We were completely aware of the warning signs and acted immediately, but sadly only one survived, and the others did not. The cost of corrective surgery for full-on GDV is approximately $2,000 - $6,000. That’s a big financial pill to swallow, especially when deciding immediately. Even though all the dogs were ten years old (or slightly older), we opted to have the surgery for only one because he had a good prognosis. Unfortunately, the others had a low survival rate, and at the end of the day, we concluded that even though we loved them, it didn’t seem fair to put them through all that at their advanced age. We are adding this portion of the story because someday, you may be faced with having to shell out thousands of dollars for your dog who is suffering from GDV, and you will have to make a decision. Our advice is to talk to your dog’s medical team and weigh the options. Another piece of advice would be to have a medical fund in place for your dog should something like GDV arise, so you are, at the very least, prepared financially. Woody after his GDV surgery and splenectomy in 2009. To listen to our coinciding podcast on bloat, click on the link: https://www.wpsgss.org/podcast/episode/4b2a3076/bloat-and-your-senior-german-shepherd-a-matter-of-life-or-death-what-you-need-to-know References: American College of Veterinary Surgeons https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/gastric-dilatation-volvulus Becker, Karen. Dr. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: This Life-Threatening Emergency Kills 30% of the Dogs It Afflicts, November 11, 2015 https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2015/11/11/gastric-dilatation-volvulus-dogs.aspx #GDV #GastricDilationVolvulus #Bloatindogs #CanineBloat #Survivingbloat #seniorGermanShepherdRescue #GermanShepherds #woody39splaceseniorgermanshepherdsanctuary #Bloat #wpsgss

(Post may contain affiliate links.) Unfortunately, arthritis in older German Shepherds is a common condition that affects their joints. It can lead to pain, which makes it difficult for them to get around or even stand up without causing discomfort. What does arthritis look like in an older German Shepherd? There can be one telltale sign or several such as limping, stiffness, trouble getting up or standing, visible swollen, hot joints, not wanting to be active, having issues navigating certain surfaces like hardwood floors, an unusually arched back, or other posture changes, and being snappish to name a few. Fortunately, there are many treatments available, but sadly, no cure. At Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, we find that the best thing you can do for your older German Shepherd is to keep them as active as possible and help relieve their symptoms with supplements, high-quality CBD oil, massage therapy, or other therapies, and medication when needed. Here are some ways you can help your older German Shepherd: 1) Keep their weight under control by providing a healthy, human-grade diet and plenty of age-appropriate exercises. We do short, frequent walks on mostly level ground throughout the day here at the sanctuary, weather pending. We also try to let the dogs swim and wade in a local lake when possible. 2) Incorporate herbs and supplements like Turmeric, glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate, collagen, and an Omega 3 fatty acid, which can help reduce pain and stiffness. We love The Missing Link Collagen Care Soft Chew Nutritional Treats for Dogs - Collagen, Glucosamine, Chondroitin & Turmeric - Mobility & Anti-Inflammatory Support - Hip & Joint, and so do our residents! It's easy to give as a treat or put right in with their food. 3) Provide a warm bed with extra padding. Not all dog beds are created equal! Seriously, our dogs spend most of their lives lying down, often on a hard surface such as a floor, which, as you can imagine, isn't very comfortable and can even be downright hurtful for older dogs with arthritis. So doesn't it make sense to spend a little extra on a supportive dog bed for your older German Shepherd that's A) going to keep them comfortable and B) will last a long time (provided your dog is not destructive)? We have many dog beds here at the sanctuary, but by far, our favorite is Big Barker 7" Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large and Extra Large Breed Dogs. This bed is so comfortable that I have put two together and laid down on it myself with the dogs. :) 4) Eliminate stairs and jumping as much as possible. I know this isn't possible for those with stairs in their home, but stairs are not a friend to an older German Shepherd with arthritis. Each step causes them pain. And they are even at greater risk of falling on the stairs, which can lead to a bigger, potentially costly problem. The same goes for jumping in and out of a car or truck. We only have one or two steps here, and if it is too much for one of our residents, we assist them with a ramp and harness. The same goes for getting in and out of a car or truck. We NEVER let them jump out. We also assist with a ramp if needed or lift the resident in and out. We use the Pet Loader because it's easy to use, stores nicely, and provides our residents with a solid, stable surface on which they feel comfortable walking. 5) If you have hard flooring like hardwood or tile, be sure to have lots of area rugs, particularly where your older German Shepherd is most likely to walk. If you want to go with area rugs, check out https://ruggable.com/ for washable rugs. We also use anti-fatigue mats, yoga mats, and even rolls of rubber nonadhesive shelf liner for this purpose. The yoga mats, which can also be purchased in rolls and shelf liners, are easy for your dog to walk on and easy for you to clean if he or she has an accident on it. 6) Therapy. Several therapies can be applied to help an older German Shepherd with arthritis, and we try to be eclectic with treatment because what works for one of our residents may not work for another. Here is a breakdown of different therapies that can help your arthritic older German Shepherd: a) Hydrotherapy. Check out our Miss Brandi giving it a go Hydrotherapy helps dogs work their joints and maintain muscle mass while minimizing discomfort. b) Laser therapy helps reduce inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain that can all be associated with arthritis. c) Massage and I don't mean a simple back rub. It's probably best to find a canine-certified massage therapist in your area, as you could do more harm than good if you aren't sure what you are doing. But if you can't afford a canine massage therapist, here is a link to some basic canine massage techniques that you can try at home: https://www.petmd.com/dog/pet-lover/4-simple-dog-massage-therapy-techniques We also purchased a Pet Wave massager to help with poor circulation, which can often be associated with arthritis. d) CBD Oil. I feel this should be a blog post in and of itself, and maybe it will later on down the road, but I will cut to the chase for this blog post. Not all CBD oil is created equal. There’s a lot of crap out there, so you have to know what you are buying to ensure the comfort you seek for your older German Shepherd is actually in the bottle you're buying, and so you’re not just throwing your money out the window. We have done just that, and it doesn’t feel good. What we have found to work are Dr. HempDog hemp oil tinctures. They have a great article on how you can help your dog navigate arthritis naturally. You can read it here: https://drhempdog.com/blogs/science/our-guide-to-navigating-canine-arthritis-naturally And if you would like to try it, you can get 10% off on us by going to: https://drhempdog.com/discount/WOODYSPLACE and enter discount code "WOODYSPLACE" 6) And lastly, you may get to the point where you need to incorporate an NSAD, other painkillers, and possibly injections into your older German Shepherd's regimen, which in my opinion, should be put off as long as possible because they can have a host of negative issues in your senior German Shepherd as well. If your older German Shepherd has arthritis, there is hope. Joint pain can be managed by all the tips in this blog post. To listen to the coinciding podcast, click on the link: https://www.wpsgss.org/podcast/episode/4c34c271/what-you-need-to-know-about-arthritis-in-your-senior-german-shepherd ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

German Shepherds of all ages can suffer from Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), but the condition is more common in older German Shepherds. IVDD is the result of aging and wear on the spinal disks. As they age, these disks (or cushions between the vertebrae break down, harden, and shrink in size, causing pain to shoot up into your dog's neck or back. Symptoms can include pain, loss of mobility, and even paralysis. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to help alleviate symptoms or stop the progression of the disease altogether. In this blog post, we discuss symptoms and treatment for degenerative disk disease and tips on preventing it if possible. What is IVDD: Intervertebral disc disease is caused by a deterioration of the outer part of the disc, which then eventually results in a disc rupture or herniation. This can happen to any disc in the spine, and symptoms will differ depending on where the rupture or herniation is located in the spine. Typically a rupture will happen when your fur friend tries to jump off the bed or sofa, which may not have been a big deal for him in the past, but now that the discs have weakened, even a small jump becomes a big deal. What are the symptoms of IVDD in Dogs: (Note. Symptoms may be sudden or gradual) Pain Nerve damage Rear legs knuckling under when walking Weakening in the back end Limp tail Urinary or fecal incontinence Trembling legs Rear legs cross over when walking Loss of mobility paralysis Treatment Options for IVDD If your older German Shepherd exhibits any of the symptoms above, he should be taken to a trusted veterinarian to be examined immediately to ensure the best possible outcome. Once your fur friend is under veterinary care, he will undergo a neurological exam. Additionally, he will most likely need an X-ray or possibly an MRI to determine the location of the disc(s) causing the problem. Treatment may include one or a combination of the following: Anti Inflammatory Medication (NSAIDs): To help reduce swelling in mild to moderate DDD. Limited Activity and REST Surgery: To remove hardened disc material that may be pressing against the spine. Surgery may be needed when NSAIDS and limited activity don't work. Physical Therapy: This can include hydrotherapy, laser, and manual therapies. Tips for Preventing IVDD: Although advancing age is a significant factor in IVDD, there are still ways you can be proactive in keeping IVDD at bay in your older German Shepherd. Here are some tips: Keep weight in check or even on the leaner side. Use ramps or small steps instead of letting your dog jump out of a vehicle or off a bed. Monitor your fur friend's activity level closely A high-quality CDB oil may have a protective effect on IVDD, but it is also an anti-inflammatory as well. Collagen Supplements If you think your older German Shepherd is hurting, it could be Intervertebral disease. The symptoms of this condition are often mistaken for other types of pain and can lead to a serious disability if not treated early on. The condition doesn't have an exact age range for onset but typically occurs between 10-12 years old, and IVDD affects about 15% of all dogs over eight years old, so if you notice any unusual behavior from your dog's back end - don't wait! Schedule a veterinary. For a list of supplements we use for our older German Shepherd Residents, please visit: https://www.wpsgss.org/post/five-supplements-that-benefit-our-senior-german-shepherds And our preferred CBD oil is Dr. HempDog. Not all CBD oil is created equal. There's a lot of crap out there, so you have to know what you are buying to ensure the comfort you seek for your older German Shepherd is actually in the bottle you're buying, and so you're not just throwing your money out the window. We have done just that, and it doesn't feel good. What we have found to work are Dr. HempDog hemp oil tinctures. They have a great article on how you can help your dog navigate arthritis naturally. You can read it here: https://drhempdog.com/blogs/science/our-guide-to-navigating-canine-arthritis-naturally And if you would like to try it, you can get 10% off on us by going to: https://drhempdog.com/discount/WOODYSPLACE and entering discount code "WOODYSPLACE" You can listen to our coinciding #Lifewitholddogs podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1771634/9737652 ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

What are cataracts? Cataracts are a common eye condition in older German Shepherds. As our fur friends age, their eye lenses become less transparent and more cloudy, resulting in reduced vision. As you can imagine, this can be a serious problem for your fur friend for various reasons, such as the big one, going blind. But also because it will make him much slower at responding to his surroundings, potentially leading to accidents or injuries. Additionally, cataracts could also be a sign of other health issues, such as diabetes, so if your older German Shepherd’s eyes look cloudy, don’t ignore them. In this blog post, we’ll cover the signs of cataracts in older German Shepherds, what causes cataracts, how to prevent them, and treatment options. What causes cataracts? The number one cause of cataracts in older German Shepherds is hereditary. But that’s not the only reason. Older German Shepherds may get cataracts due to an eye injury or an underlying health issue such as diabetes. Furthermore, cataracts can also appear for no apparent reason other than advanced age. Types of Cataracts: There are three types of cataracts which can affect our dogs. They include congenital cataracts, developmental cataracts, and senile cataracts. • Congenital cataracts are present from birth, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the cataracts are inherited. • Developmental cataracts develop with time and are not inherited. • Senile cataracts develop in older dogs. Older German Shepherds primarily suffer from congenital cataracts. Signs and symptoms: Blurry or cloudy eyes Your fur friend is bumping into things Your fur friend struggles to find his food dish, water bowl, toys, or bed Unusually anxious, possibly even snappish He becomes overly clingy Reluctant to get up and move around Treatment options for older German Shepherds with cataracts: Your veterinarian will determine the best course of treatment for your older German Shepherd based on his age and other factors. Treatment may include: Surgical removal of the discolored lens material Treating underlying health issues Eye drops Possible lens replacement Preventing cataracts: Prevention is not always possible. For instance, if the cataracts are congenital, it’s not preventable, but there are steps you can take to reduce his chances of getting cataracts otherwise. You can: Reduce eye exposure to sunlight and bright lights. That means you may need to purchase your older German Shepherd sun goggles, not for fun, but for medicinal purposes. It’s also imperative to incorporate regular eye exams into your older German Shepherd’s wellness regime. And finally, you can help reduce your fur friend’s chance of getting cataracts by controlling underlying health issues. In closing, cataracts in older German Shepherds are a clouding of the eye lens, which is common in older dogs. If your older German Shepherd has trouble seeing or difficulty walking, you should take him to see his veterinarian for an exam. A diagnosis of cataracts is not the end of the world, but it needs to be addressed by a trusted veterinarian and a treatment plan put in place. Cataracts may make life harder for your fur friend by diminishing his vision, but with treatment, his sight can be restored to the degree that enhances his quality of life. To listen to the coinciding podcast, click on the link: https://www.wpsgss.org/podcast/episode/4c24c6ff/does-your-senior-german-shepherd-have-cataracts ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the “20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds” series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a common, merciless neurological disorder in older German Shepherds that surfaces anywhere between 7 and 14 years of age and is seen more in males than females. It is a slow, progressive spinal cord disorder similar to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in humans, which starts with a loss of balance and coordination that progresses to muscle weakness. Then, in time the dog will be unable to support himself, leading to paralysis resulting in quadriplegia or paraplegia. Eventually, death occurs from respiratory failure due to paralysis of muscles around the chest cavity. There is no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy, but supportive care and Physical Therapy may slow down the progression of the disease. In this post, we'll share our experiences with DM, which will hopefully help you should your older German Shepherd be stricken with it. What is Degenerative Myelopathy? Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the spine of dogs. The cause of this condition is currently unknown, but it is thought to be caused by genetics (such as genetic mutation, SOD-1) and an autoimmune disorder in which the dog's immune system attacks its central nervous system. This attack leads to the deterioration of the myelin, or insulin, around nerve fibers and axons, otherwise known as the nerve fibers, which results in the inability of the brain to send a message to move specific body parts in the affected region. In the section of a spinal cord from a dog who has died of DM (Left), the degeneration is seen as a loss of the blue color at the edges (arrows) compared with the spinal cord from a normal dog which is blue throughout (Right). http://www.caninegeneticdiseases.net/ How is Degenerative Myelopathy Diagnosed? Degenerative Myelopathy can often be confused with other ailments such as a herniated disk, injury, stroke, or even cancer, to name a few, so it is important to have testing done to rule out other, treatable conditions. Testing for Degenerative Myelopathy is a process of elimination. Testing includes blood work, samples to see if he is a gene carrier of DM, X Rays, CT, MRI, and neurological testing. An example of neurological testing would be to take the dog's back paw and flip it back, so the top of his paw is now upside down facing the ground. If a dog demonstrates some neurologic trouble, such as DM, he will not attempt to flip his paw back to the correct position. This is called "Knuckling Under." I've attached an example of what a dog's paw looks like from knuckling under Symptoms: Loss of balance and coordination in the hind limbs Knuckling under Back legs crossing over Atrophy of the back end Inability to support back end while standing Inability to get up from a sitting/lying position Inability to walk Incontinence Weakened bark Excessive panting Nervousness/irritability Loss of front legs Respiratory failure Treatment for Degenerative Myelopathy: As of December 2021, there is no known cure for Degenerative Myelopathy, only supportive care and physical therapy to help prolong the quality of life for as long as possible. We have found hydrotherapy and massage to be beneficial for keeping our older German Shepherds as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. We also add a high-quality CBD oil, such as Dr. Hempdog helps calm anxious dogs. To try Dr. Hempdog and receive 10% off on us, go to: https://drhempdog.com/discount/WOODYSPLACE and enter discount code "WOODYSPLACE" And when the time comes, we use supportive devices such as a harness and wheel cart. We like Blue Dog Help Em Up harnesses https://helpemup.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiA78aNBhAlEiwA7B76p2m9hp3HT9-uYayo4rpI3nBmeobo7h5bbw4yH3nDJEaZ9pz44hG7oRoCfT4QAvD_BwE and Walkin Wheels wheel carts: https://www.handicappedpets.com/adjustable-dog-wheelchairs/ Another important aspect of treatment is preventative care. As your older German Shepherd's disease progresses, he will need more preventative care, such as protecting his knuckles and feet from dragging across hard, rough surfaces, which will cause injury to his unsuspecting body. Fortunately, you can provide assistance when keeping your DM dog comfortable, from doggie booties and socks to a device called a "Drag Bag" for when he is inside the house and not in his wheel cart. Check out the video below to see our former resident. Gabriel in his drag bag. A drag bag can be purchased here => => https://www.handicappedpets.com/walkin-drag-bag/ Also, as your DM older German Shepherd becomes incontinent, we have found that reusable mats like Millie Mats are beneficial because they draw moisture away from the dog, are durable, last a long time, and are made from organic material. If you want to learn more about these mats, click on the link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DFN51TB/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_til?tag=woosplasenger-20&linkCode=w00&linkId=8eceb643c5990bf939de919435dd2eb7&creativeASIN=B07DFN51TB In closing, Degenerative Myelopathy is a difficult time for both the parents of older German Shepherds and the older German Shepherd alike. We feel helpless as our beloved companion becomes paralyzed and loses independence one step after another, and they feel helpless and frustrated because they are entirely cognitive, but their body is failing them. For us, being a caretaker is no easy task, but we have found it helpful to live in the now as our fur friends do and to remember to make the most of the time we have with them because one day, all we will have are memories of the time we had together. Jared out for a walk in his wheel cart in the snow After he passed from DM, his wheel cart tracks left marks in the snow and in our hearts. Resources: https://ivcjournal.com/degenerative-myelopathy/ https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/degenerative-myelopathy https://www.wpsgss.org/post/six-tips-for-canine-wheel-cart-success We have a DM support group on Facebook. To join, click on the link below https://www.facebook.com/groups/2009914109023556https://www.facebook.com/groups/2009914109023556 To listen to the coinciding podcast, click on the link: https://www.wpsgss.org/podcast/episode/4f8d33d6/degenerative-myelopathy-dm-an-all-too-common-merciless-disease-in-senior-german-shepherds ***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.

This past weekend we celebrated Miss Savvy's 12th birthday. She received gifts, spent the day with friends, and enjoyed our delicious Thanksgiving Pupcake treats, and boy was she thrilled! Of course, it wasn't just her who was jumping for joy over these scrumptious pupcakes; It was all Woody's Place residents doing a happy dance once they realized something yummy right from the sanctuary kitchen was on the horizon. If you have followed along with Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary and our #Lifewitholddogs blog and podcast, then you know I am a huge proponent of home-cooking human-grade foods and treats for our senior German Shepherd residents. It makes me feel good about what I'm serving them, and they seem to enjoy "real food" a whole lot more than something ultra-processed out of a bag or box. I get that not everyone has the time or desire to make home-cooked treats for your dog, but I would ask that you give it a try just once for them and yourself as well. Trust me; seeing how excited your dog gets over something you made for him will make you feel warm and fuzzy all over! Now, if I've got you talked into trying your hand at making your fur friend homemade treats, may I suggest you start with our Thanksgiving Pupcakes?? Have fun with it! Be creative with the sweet potato frosting and garnish on top, and remember, your fur friend doesn't care if the pupcakes aren't perfect. He just wants to spend quality time with you while enjoying your tasty, nutritious snacks! Ready to rock n roll?? Here's what you are going to need: To see how to make our Thanksgiving Pupcake treats and Savvy's 12th birthday party, check out our YouTube channel: Pro tip: If you don't have golden paste, you can exclude it from the recipe. If you want to include it, here is how to make it and all the reasons why you should be providing it to your dog: https://www.wpsgss.org/post/goldenpastrecipe Pupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Disclaimer: Not recommended for dogs with turkey food sensitivities.

The question we get asked most often is, "How do you get all the dogs to get along?" And the answer is.....it takes a lot of work, consistency, and patience. The first thing to remember is that we've already chosen only senior German Shepherds that we feel will be a good fit for our cage-free sanctuary life program. So the very first step is vetting the newbie properly. You can read more about how we do that in this blog post here>>> https://www.wpsgss.org/post/how-we-determine-which-dog-will-become-a-sanctuary-resident After that, we follow these six steps. Keep in mind that no two dogs are the same. One may adapt very quickly to living with a bunch of other senior German Shepherds because they have lived with other dogs and know the drill or simply because they are outgoing and friendly. But other dogs that come to us take time to get acclimated to living with a pack. The ultimate goal is to get all of our senior German Shepherds living together harmoniously. Something else we keep in mind while integrating a newbie...... Every single senior German Shepherd that has come to us must go through the rule of three, and we need to respect that and help them through it. There is no rushing the rule of three. Some get through it quicker, and others take longer, but it's always best to give them the time they need to ensure the transition to Woody's Place is as smooth as it possibly can be.

It's that time of the year, folks, when we here in the United States "let freedom ring" by getting together with family and friends to enjoy BBQs and cookouts where fireworks will most likely send us and our full bellies home with a bang! Surely a good time will be had by all! After all, who doesn't love delicious grilled food, ice-cold drinks, and fun into the night with family and friends that ends in the booming escapades of fireworks that light up the nighttime sky? Ummmmm....your dog. Sure he may be into the food and fun part, but I'd bet anything that he's no fan of the booming escapades of fireworks lighting up the nighttime sky. For him, it's just downright scary. Traumatizing even. Did you know that most dogs who go missing do so on the night of the Fourth of July? It's true! Lost pets increased by 30% between July 4th - the 6th. There are plenty of different ways to be proactive in keeping your dog safe from the noise of fireworks. Some folks swear by thunder shirts. Others ensure their dog's microchip and collar are updated with contact information in case they bolt. Some even exercise their dog considerably before fireworks to tire them out during the "big show." Again, all great suggestions. But we've put together an inforgraph of how we handle fireworks here at the sanctuary on July 4th. Sometimes we use one or two of these tips, and sometimes we use all of them, but one thing is sure, we ALWAYS stay home because it's not worth it to us to leave the dogs scared and freaking out while we go to see fireworks. The truth is that we wouldn't even have a good time knowing what surely was happening back at the sanctuary. Check out the infograph below, and please feel free to share.

Littermate Syndrome can occur between canine littermates or puppies who are not biologically related but are the same age and brought into a home together simultaneously. Over time, the puppies develop such a strong, unhealthy attachment to one another that impedes their ability to bond correctly with their people or other pets. As a result, they never reach their full potential and usually exhibit poor behavior toward one another that can last throughout their lifetime. Being in the trenches of the canine rescue world since 2005, at times, I’d wonder why the rescue I worked with before Woody’s Place refrained from taking on two dogs who had lived together their whole lives, besides the obvious reasons, of course....double the food, double the vet bills, double everything. But even if all expenditures were covered, the rescue would still shy away from the request to take littermates collectively, even if they were older dogs. Well, after taking in Jensen and Jared (in 2019), two nine-year-old German Shepherds who have lived together since they were nine weeks old, I get it now. Before them, I had no experience with Littermate Syndrome or how hard it could be to spin the negative that comes with it into a positive. But I’m persistent if anything. :) Jensen and Jared have Littermate Syndrome. It was evident from the moment they got off transport, but I didn’t know it at the time. Jensen was attacking Jared for absolutely no apparent reason, and Jared was super insecure and very needy, to the point where he allowed Jensen to attack him because he was dependent on Jensen. Initially, nothing could stop them from behaving poorly. Jensen continued to attack, and Jared readily accepted it like there was nothing wrong with Jensen’sdidn’t actions. We would intervene, but they were so focused on one another that it was as if we weren’t even there. The bottom line was Jensen was the boss, and Jared was “needy baby, greedy baby,” perpetually crying and forcing himself on Jensen even though Jensen was horrible to Jared. Both were a hot mess! But we were determined to make it work with Jensen and Jared here at the sanctuary without splitting them up for the remainder of their lives, so I read all I could get my hands on about Littermate Syndrome and how to diminish the challenging issues that come with it. Fortunately, for Jensen and Jared (and for us), we’ve managed to at least take the Littermate Syndrome issues down a few notches over the past 1 ½ years they’ve been with us, which has been a blessing even if their relationship is still not perfect. Here are the steps we took to reduce the Littermate Syndrome behavior issues we saw in the boys. 1) Shortly after Jensen and Jared arrived, they were separated but not out of each other’s eyesight. We had Jensen and Jared in the same area, separated by a baby gate. But that didn’t matter because Jensen still tried to attack Jared. Of course, he wasn’t successful through the gate and eventually gave up. It took a little over a month to remove the gate, with both dogs remaining unharmed. 2) During the course of the baby gate separation, Jensen and Jared were not walked together or could not play out in the yard together unsupervised. Additionally, we did not allow them to have meals near one another or sleep side by side. Each dog was walked with other sanctuary dogs and had free time individually with the other dogs to build new bonds and learn how to function independently from one other. 3) We learned from their previous owner that the boys were together ALL THE TIME, never being separated throughout their whole lives. They even ate out of the same food bowl, which explained why Jensen was so fat, and Jared was underweight. Jensen, being alpha, got most of the food, while poor, insecure Jared did without. Of course, there was no way we would continue that unhealthy practice here at the sanctuary, so on the first day, they got their own food bowls, beds, and toys. That’s because it was imperative that while they were in our care, Jensen and Jared were treated as individuals, not as a package deal. 4) And finally, when Jensen and Jared consistently demonstrated, to the best of their ability, behavior considered to be appropriate, they were rewarded. For instance, when Jensen could be around Jared without biting him simply because Jared was near, Jensen was rewarded with pieces of cheese, turkey, or some other high-value treat. And when Jared reached the point where he wasn’t constantly shoving himself on Jensen, he would be rewarded. And I’m happy to say that with consistency and patience, we’ve got the boys to a point where the negative behaviors brought about by Littermate Syndrome are now manageable, not completely gone, but manageable. As you can see in the video, Jensen and Jared still prefer to be next to one another even when ample space is available. We allow it so long as they don’t start to regress in the progress we’ve made.