Thoughtful Ways to Keep Your Senior Dog Comfortable

We all want the best for our dogs, especially as they approach their later years of life. It’s safe to say that most dog owners would like to see their canine pals age gracefully with as much love and comfort as possible.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, a dog seven-plus years in age is generally considered a senior pet, which means from seven years old and onward, they may start to require some extra care and, eventually, changes to their daily routine, diet and more. Below, we’ve put together a list of ways you can support your dog in their aging journey.

Increase Accessibility Throughout Your Home

As your dog gets older, they may not be able to move around as swiftly as they once did. Some senior dogs may experience trouble jumping up and down from certain surfaces or struggle to identify obstacles due to worsening eyesight.

The good news is, there are changes you can make around your home as well as different “equipment” you can incorporate into your senior dog’s daily routine to ensure life is a little easier for them. Making the necessary adjustments for your senior dog throughout your home can make all the difference!

Provide Regular Exercise

Just as humans will start to experience changes in their body as they age, dogs go through changes in mobility and more. The aging process can bring about ailments such as joint issues, loss of hearing or vision, heart disease, and so on.

It’s possible that the daily game of catch you once played with your dog or the routine walks you once took may be too strenuous, but finding a method of exercise that will suit their current energy levels is crucial and can slow down or even prevent the development of certain diseases, illnesses, or fatigue. Also, depending on your dog’s needs, canine therapy can be a great option for some senior pets.

Adjust Diet and Supplements as Needed

The health of a beloved pet is a primary concern for most senior dog owners out there, and as your dog ages, their dietary needs will likely change as well. For example, senior dogs that have reduced physical activity may need to resort to a food that is lower calorie. It is best to do sufficient research as well as consult your vet before making these types of changes.

Another way to support your senior dog is by incorporating bone, muscle, and joint health supplements into their diet. Veterinarians can also make great recommendations when it comes to these aspects.

Consult Your Vet for the Best Ways to Support Your Senior Dog

You may consider upping the frequency in which you visit the vet as your dog gets older. For example, right now you may only go in for annual vaccinations and checkups, but for a senior dog it could be helpful to visit the vet every six months to monitor lumps, heart function, hearing, and eyesight. Early detection of any problems is crucial and can aid your dog in living a longer, healthier life!

Practice a Regular Grooming Routine

Last and certainly not least, it’s important to maintain a regular grooming routine for your senior dog! You may even opt for an extra appointment every so often to ensure their nails are kept at a comfortable length and their fur does not become matted.

Pet Palace offers a variety of grooming services that are sure to make your senior dog feel loved and cared for.

Contact Pet Palace to Schedule Grooming for Your Senior Dog

If you’re interested in pampering your senior dog, check out our website for a full list of grooming services available at our varied locations. We look forward to seeing you and your canine pal sometime soon!

Categories: Dogs, Pet Safety, Tips for Your Pets