How To Make Life Easier On Your Senior Dog

As a pet parent, we all have to bear the irreplaceable loss of bond with our pet someday. Our love for them grows more each day, and as they become seniors, it's time we make life easier for them.

All dog breeds like humans face health issues as they age - such as Pitbulls have cataracts, Dobermans have liver disorders, Labrador Retrievers face eyesight issues, hearing loss, and suffer from arthritis, and so on.

Therefore, ensure to take care of the health of your pet right from the beginning. Regular exercise, annual checkups, and giving a balanced diet with calcium in dog food can go a long way to help life get better in their senior years.

Here are some specific ways to make life easier for your senior dog

1. Make at least bi-annual appointments with your veterinarian

If you have a dog breed aged six years above, get your pet checked at least every six months.

The idea is to catch the problem before your dog gets sick, and things become complicated!

We suggest consulting a veterinarian and get these test done routinely ( in 6-months gaps)

●     Full body examination from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail.

●     Blood chemistry test and a complete blood count test

●     Urinalysis test

●     Nutritional Analysis

●     Fecal test for parasites

2. Better Bedding

Aging can cause issues of arthritis in your pets. Therefore, get quality calcium-rich food for dogs and provide them orthopedic, comfortable beds to relax. You can add a memory foam mattress or get a raised bed depending upon your dog breed, making it easier for them to change positions in bed.

3. Exercise

Being a pet parent of a senior dog does not mean you can leave exercises out of your schedule; the body movements are essential! Moderate exercise can lubricate their joints as well as maintain their muscle mass. So take them on regular walks and avoid stairs if your pet has arthritis or cardiac issues.

4. Handicap Accessibility

We are sure you loved when your dog used to jump on your couch or bed in one go!

At present, aging can make jumping hard for them. If you want to re-enjoy old moments, just purchase, or build a ramp/steps that helps them get onto the bed or couch. It even can help them get into the car.

5. Safety Considerations

Slipping and falling can be risky for your senior dogs! 

Apart from giving calcium on dog food, for strengthening bones, check the floor tiles in your house. If they are slippery, get rubber or silicon slip-on nail covers for them. It prevents slips and falls for all senior dog breeds.

6. Elevated Food Bowls

If your dog struggles with joints and bone issues, elevated food bowls can help them eat comfortably. It puts a lesser strain on their neck, hips, shoulders, and joints. It's an excellent option for those dog breeds suffering from arthritis, orthopedic conditions, joint disorders, sore joints, or spinal conditions.

Conclusion

Start adopting these specific ways to make life easier for your senior dog breeds. If you need a more holistic approach to the pet-healthcare, leave your questions and comments below.