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Post by Anakin & Phoenix on Dec 10, 2003 14:04:19 GMT -5
Our Hannah just turned 8 on the 5th. We lost one GSDx at 7, her sister at 9 and my sable GSD at 10.
So I am finding that I am considering Hannah who is happily healthy other than allergies to be a 'senior'.
I'm interested in hearing from others as to what age they consider their GSDs to be 'seniors'.
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GSDnut
Full Member
A Wabbit !!
Posts: 85
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Post by GSDnut on Dec 10, 2003 16:41:18 GMT -5
I would say that a GSD without any problems (e.g. subluxion (HD) or other long standing illness) should normally live to about 11 or 12 on average. I have been owned by quite a lot of GSDs and that is my personal opinion based on my own dogs.
Having said that, I have a Ch. Exl vom Batu daughter (my 'Bessie'), who turned 14 last 30th September. She has been 'failing' for a few months now, but shows no signs of distress or pain, and I am suprised how long she has lasted after she was found to have Breast Cancers about 3 months ago. Sadly it will soon be time to send her to the Rainbow Bridge, but until then she is getting all the love, care and attention we can give her in her 'twilight months'.
I would think that at 9 years, (63 dog years!) they can be called 'Seniors' - at almost 10 Dog Years, I am certainly a Senior Citizen or OAP as we call them here (Old Age Pensioner!).
Regards,
John
Kind regards,
John
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Post by TheDahliMamma on Dec 27, 2003 15:12:14 GMT -5
I begin my "senior" dog program at age 7. Thats when I start doing annual blood work, primarily. I also start watching for signs of arthritis, diseases of the mouth (periodontal disease and broken teeth), watch for changes in their eyes, slight bumps and lumps, etc. I really believe that a "stitch in time saves 9".
With my crew, they have all faired very well through 7, 8, 9 and 10 years. I have a rott/gsd mix who is going to be 12 on Jan 3. She is doing fabulous. And my rescued GSD, Hattie will be 8 in January and is still competing in agility.
This age is not to say they should be retired, cannot be competitive any longer or contributors to society (the rott/gsd was still doing search and rescue at 10). Just that I start paying close attention to any changes at 7. Well, I always have my eyes open...its just that I start looking closer at that point.
Good luck!
Fran
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