Basenji
Schensi Africa Dog
Basenji Information worth knowing
The Ageing Basenji
Basenjis can get up to 18 years old. If they are kept well, one can count on normally a life span of 13 to 15 years. The ageing of a Basenji becomes noticeable only gradually. First there are a few gray hairs on his snout. Then he becomes less mentally alert. Then one finds that he becomes more and more dependent and wants to be close to us. He also wants more attention and petting. He may sneak quietly under a desk and sleeps more. Finally he shows some wobbliness or even stumbles.
However, he still remains active. He occasionally behaves like a puppy, plays and bounces around as if he were young again. It is thus advisable to repeatedly offer him something new, although the normal routine becomes more important. Usually he also keeps his appetite. Nevertheless, one should gradually reduce his portions ( three times per day a small portion ) because ageing it is easier for a lean Basenji. The food balance has to correspond to his age. Basenji Hints It is essential to watch their health.
One will increasingly notice the beginning ageing process of ones Basenji. In addition to the regular and controlling care the timely involvement of a veterinarian makes sense in order to treat new or hidden illnesses.
When illnesses and pain can no longer be treated reasonably well, but only then, you have to have the courage to make the decision to spare the Basenji insufferable agonies. It is important to have the veterinarian come to your house to liberate your dear dog from pain and suffering in his own surroundings without unnecessary stress. Ask the veterinarian early on whether or not he would come to your house at the end of your dogs life. Think more of your Basenji and less of your loss; that will help you. All dog owners have to master this painful state. Saying goodbye. It is a help to recall the puppy-time and the untroubled devotedness of your Basenji.
