AboutLabman Expertise What kind of food is best, dogs that won't eat, dogs that eat too fast, judging your dogs weight, preventing joint problems in large breeds, feeding puppies, supplements, avoiding health problems, healthy skin and coat, etc.
Experience Much of what I know about dog diets comes from my years of experience and training with dog guides and other service dogs. I can share their proven methods with you. They can't afford anything but the best to give a dog the same long, active life you want for your pet.
They breed most of their dogs, and have pedigrees, X-rays, other
medical records, and complete life histories on thousands of dogs. Their staff veterinarians are in touch with each other, top nutritionists, academic researchers, etc. They have investigated and tested many different diets. Nobody knows more about producing and maintaining healthy dogs, has more incentive to do so, and to share what they know with those such as me caring for the dogs. Unlike many others giving diet advice, they aren't selling anything. They are giving away dogs after very expensive training. It costs them the price of a new car to replace ones no longer able to work. They don't skimp on food.
I have also done extensive reading in this area.
Education/Credentials My degree in chemistry allows me to understand how real research is done and evaluate the proof behind diet claims. I am not taken in by the junk science behind many diets.
Question My neutered male shepard mix will be 15 in April. His appetite has decreased significantly. His sister displayed the same just before she died in Sept. I realize this is old. Under vet advice I give him cooked chicken thighs, rice and vegetables. He was animal agressive when he was younger (except to his sister) and I don't think a new dog would be a comfort, even though I know he is lonely. He chases the cats bk to the barn(his job)likes to go for walks, but mostly sleeps. He is free to roam anywhere on the farm. He eats anything from my hand. To entice his appetite I feed him what I am eating. Am I just prolonging the inevitable? I tried once to put him to sleep, but could not handle it and cancelled the appt.
Answer This is a very tough decision. What I feel is the major factor on when is the dogs quality of life. Is he still enjoying chasing the cats? Is he happy just to nap at your feet? Is he in pain? As long as he enjoys life, go ahead and prolong it. if he gets to where he is just existing and is in pain, then it is time.
