The answer is NO! You can train a dog at any age. There are stories of successes right here on the srdogs.com site. And you can find out more about the possibilities and joys of training an older dog at the Spirit Dog Training website!
Adjust your own and your dog’s activity level when the weather is warm. For all dogs, but especially for seniors, a hot day means shorter, slower walks and more resting in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. Provide lots of access to fresh cold water — in several locations that are easily accessible. And, of course, NEVER leave any child or any dog unattended in a locked car — even when it doesn’t seem that warm outside. According to Consumer Reports, “Parents and others must remain vigilant about the ongoing danger of children and pets dying in hot cars. With many families working from home and practicing social distancing, new tactics will need to be implemented to prevent these tragedies. And as we anticipate that public health measures will remain in place through the summer, it’s important to remember that hot car deaths can be a four-season threat in some parts of the country.”
Pet food, treats, and toys, etc., are recalled all the time, due to health and safety issues. Up-to-the-minute information on recalls is now available via an app that enables you to, “Search all pet-related recalls from the FDA, American Veterinary Medical Association®, and Animal Health Foundation. Our list is updated daily and includes toys, meds, and equipment recalls — not just foods.” Click here to access the app.
Dogs’ sensitive hearing and their flight reaction to startling noises can cause panic and distress for them. Shelters take in an increased number of runaway dogs when fireworks are set off in the community. If fireworks are being set off nearby, keep your dog at home with you, hunker down in a quiet space (perhaps a room with the air conditioner running), and 
surround yourselves with familiar objects and yummy foods. If you need to take your dog out, use a sturdy harness and strong leash, and be sure the name tag showing your contact information is up to date.
The Centers for Disease Control states that, “At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.” For more information visit the CDC website.
Rimadyl, Etogesic, etc. — can increase the risk of infection and delay wound healing!! —
A recent study found that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increased the risk of infection. According to the authors, this association — which is new to veterinary science — might be because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs cause immunosuppression, making infection more likely. Read the complete report….
For in-depth information, including other warnings, see the page on Rimadyl and other NSAIDs.
Anytime your veterinarian prescribes medication for your dog, the office should also give you a “Client Information Sheet” (CIS) that explains the purpose of the drug, its intended benefits, and its possible negative side effects. The CIS is different from the package insert and is an important ally to you in protecting your dog’s health. Be sure you obtain a CIS on any occasion that your veterinarian prescribes a drug for your dog. More info here.