The Geriatric Dog

The senior and geriatric dog population has increased dramatically over the last two decades and necessitates veterinary approaches that are tailored specifically for this life stage. This chapter addresses the physiologic changes associated with aging, particular risk factors, including frailty syndrome, and an introduction to sarcopenia, cachexia and other changes that impact the functional mobility and quality of life of senior pets. Exercise implementation and suggested exercises to improve and maintain activities of daily living are presented.