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my buddy is getting old

by Dan
(Pennsylvania)

we have had our JRT since she was born, just over 12 years. she still runs and jumps and is full of energy. My concern is that her personality is changing, seeming more disengeged with members of our family and will follow me around the house and only sleep where i sleep. In addition she has started urinating in the house. I am afraid she is getting old and will need to start prepping myself for what may be coming. any thoughts?

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Nov 19, 2012
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by: Brenda

I know what you mean Gina. It's so hard seeing our Jacks get older. They are not always the same happy go lucky puppy that they were when they were younger. Heck, we even experienced that with my Grandmother as she got older. I think the rule of thumb with dogs is that when they are no longer happy and loving life (tail is wagging, eating) then it is time. It is such a hard and heartbreaking decision. I've had to do it with our other dog a few years back and it is gut wrenching. I think you will know when the time is right. Best wishes to you in this decision!
Nov 01, 2012
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by: Gina

My Jack Russell boy will be 16 on Thanksgiving Day. I am experiencing the same issues. I'm cleaning up after him several times a day. He freaks out when I leave him and bites me when i pet him in the wrong spot or pick him up. I'm pretty sure he is almost blind and can't hear at all. I'm faceing the fact we can't continue on like this. He is causing much grief in our house hold. I'm torn about putting him down because he is otherwise healthy. UGH!!!
Oct 07, 2012
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by: Bremda

Unfortunately our Jacks get older and many times their personalities can change a bit. It could be that your Jack has lost some of her hearing/vision and is a bit anxious now and follows you around. Sometimes a dogs memory fades a little and he/she doesn't always recognize family members. Also, arthritis can kick in and your Jack may be in some pain which may be why she is clinging to you. A good joint supplement could help with that.

In terms of the urinating I would make sure you have a good enzyme based cleanser to remove any trace of smells (you can get it at a pet store). Put your Jack on a very set schedule with lots of short outside time. You might want to consider limiting her to a smaller section of the house. But most importantly I would have her checked out by the vet to make sure she doesn't have a urinary tract infection which is common in older dogs.

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