The Proper Way to Care for an Elderly Pet

Senior pets are more susceptible to injuries, illnesses, and conditions that are associated with aging than younger pets. Our precious old buddies can obtain comprehensive health care from vets to optimize their health and prolong their lives. This program is focused on identifying and addressing developing issues at the earliest stage possible in order to give the least invasive solutions. Making subtle adjustments to your pet’s routine can help them live a healthier and much more pleasant life.

What treatment do senior pets need?

Many pet owners find it reassuring and rewarding to see their pets age. It isn’t easy to think that the same bundle of energy that was tearing around the yard many years in the past is now the quiet and delightful old companion curled at our feet. When your pet begins to slow down, gain weight, or stiffen up, they require your support and understanding. 

Unlike a fellow person, your pet can not take responsibility for its own treatment. Your pet is highly dependent on you to keep them healthy. So here are a few suggestions for your senior pet as they encounter some of the obstacles that come with aging.

Regular Grooming

Your pet may have problems or be less willing to groom itself as much as it did when they were younger. You may also notice that their hair is getting less shiny, or they have flaking skin. Frequent grooming practices at home, including regular brushing, will help with this. You may also need to bathe your pet more often, especially if they have any bathroom accidents or suffer from incontinence. 

Bringing your pet to the groomer on a regular basis will also help maintain their nails trimmed and their coats healthier as well as glossy. If you need pet maintenance & care for your senior pets, you can ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Joints and Activity

As our pets grow older, they become less energetic because of stiff joints. Degenerative joint illness and arthritis affect 90 percent of pets over the age of ten. It can be challenging to identify if your pet is in pain. There are, however, a few indications of joint inflammation that can be observed in your home.

  • Hard time getting out of bed
  • Stairs are too steep for them to climb
  • Stopping frequently during walks due to lack of interest
  • Stiffening in colder weather

A physical exam of the limbs and back may be part of a routine vet checkup to help in the detection of arthritis. In order to relieve your pet’s pain and slow the progression of joint disease, your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication, supplements or even dog acupuncture to treat this type of health condition.

Increased Veterinary Care

Geriatric pets should have semi-annual veterinary examinations instead of annual visits to find and treat early indications of health conditions or other problems. Geriatric care for pets is comparable to those for younger pets, but they are more detailed. They may include dental treatment, bloodwork, and thorough checkups to look for signs of diseases that are more common in older pets.

Ultimately

Even though your pet is growing older doesn’t mean you can’t have the splendid partnership you’re used to. The initial step in preserving your pet’s health is to educate yourself on the particular demands of older pets. With careful care and attention, your pet may be there for you as you enter your golden years.