AKC Gazette April 2002

Time Honored - Caring for the Older Boxer

Sooner or later, the beloved Boxer you raised from puppyhood, the dog who gave you your first big owner-handled win, who flies to your side when you call, begins to slow down. Time waits for no living creature. Your elderly Boxer is a treasure, a great gift to hold dear. No new hopeful should steal his fluffy, squeaky spider or take his special place in your heart. At the same time, you have a responsibility to your older dog: to learn to recognize the signs of aging and to take appropriate measures to extend the quality of his life. Most of us are familiar with the two illnesses that take our Boxersbefore their time, or after they have lived many years. Cancers and heart disease, most often Boxer cardiomyopathy (BCM) are familiar enemies. Certainly any weak or fainting spells must quickly be investigated, as they can be indicative of cardiac arhythmias due to BCM. Such heart arhythmias can often be treated with a variety of drugs in order to prolong a good quality of life. Boxers can live years if regulated well on such medication.

Grooming of the old dog should take place every other week or so, with just a quick pat-down with a soft brush or damp cloth. What you are really doing is looking for lumps and bumps that should not be there. Early warning is the best weapon against malignant growths. Very often such lumps are benign, but we must be ever vigilant. If surgery is necessary to remove skin tumors, do ask your vet about local anesthesia to avoid the risks of the more general form. Arthritis is a common problem in aging Boxers. Your dog may exhibit pain and stiffness when rising after a nap or after overdoing a romp in the yard. With nonsteroidal pain medicines, veterinary science has made great strides in the treatment of such discomfort. Sudden lameness may be indicative of Lyme or another tick-borne disease that requires prompt veterinary treatment in young and old dogs alike. More serious degenerative spinal conditions require sophisticated medical attention. Remember that the Boxer is prone to developing gingival hyperplasia an overgrowth of gum tissue-in middle to later age. This is a benign condition but it can cause malocclusion, tooth decay, and bleeding. It needs to be differentiated from potential mouth malignancies, but most often can be left alone and is not cause for alarm. Oral hygiene is especially important with such dogs, and doggy toothpastes and rinses are ideal for such situations.

High-quality protein is especially important as your Boxer ages. Fewer calories may be required as the metabolism slows, but do not skimp on the same good quality of food that the younger Boxer eats. Antioxidants (found in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium) are desirable in that they stimulate a strong immune system and positively affect specific organ systems. Your old Boxer should not be allowed to get fat, but should be kept in the same lean, hard condition of his youth. Be vigilant for sudden changes in water consumption excessive drinking and urination may be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or another life-threatening condition.

No youngster can take the place of the devoted elder Boxer who knows every rhythm of your household. The memories of these waning days will be among the sweetest. How fortunate it is that the vigilant, aware owner has the opportunity to extend these beautiful hours.

The American Boxer Club specialty will be held May 5th - 10th, 2004 at the Abbey Inn and Resort, in Fontana, Wisconsin.

Stephanie Abraham
P. O. Box 346
Scotland, CT 06264