The Best Advice for Caring for a Senior Pet

We adore our pets and we would love to see them be young and vibrant forever, but unfortunately, age impacts us all. When they do get older, it is our responsibility to pay them back for all of the comfort and companionship that they provided us by continuing to show them love and care for their needs as senior pets. Here at Spirit Pet Urns, we aim to make the transition from life to death as easy as possible for pet owners, but before that time comes, you can help your dog or cat live a happy life in their elder years. Here are some tips to do that.

Keep the Vet Involved

It is recommended to bring your pets to the vet at least once per year, but as they get older, it is a good idea to bring them in more often, especially if you notice signs of pain or discomfort. Vets can give you advice on how to care for your senior pet and offer tips on improved dietary habits that will keep them happy and comfortable. Keep in mind that cats are considered geriatric at age seven and dogs at around age 11, so even if they don’t show signs of slowing down, you should pay more attention and bring them to the vet.

Clear the Clutter

As your pets get older, they will likely also get a bit slower and they may not be able to jump across floors and over furniture like they once did. For that reason, it is a good idea to clear the clutter around your home for the safety of you and your pets. When you stay organized and optimize your home, you not only make a safe environment, but you also create a more stress-free atmosphere where you can find what you need when you want it and not freak out every time you walk into a room. Plus, cleaning floors and furniture can also limit the potential for dust mites and other allergies that can be harmful to you and your pet.

Check Their Teeth

While it is important to keep an eye on your pet’s movements, you should also pay equal attention to their mouths and the condition of their teeth. As pets get older, they have an increased risk for oral ailments, such as gum disease and cracked teeth,which can be incredibly painful and will get worse without the proper care. To prevent these issues, make it a habit to brush your dog’s teeth regularly using a finger brush and a pet-safe toothpaste and brush in circular movements. If you notice bleeding or obvious discomfort then go to the vet.

Exercise Still Matters

Remember that just because your dog seems a bit sluggish, it doesn't mean that they should sit down on their bed and not move at all. In fact, regular exercise becomes even more important as pets get older because they need to maintain their body weight and muscle mass. You don’t have to go overboard with exercise but allowing them to run around in the backyard and go with you on hikes will do wonders for their health during these older years.

Life Improvements

If during their exercise you notice that they truly are having trouble getting around, it is a good idea to implement some life improvements, such as a ramp to get upstairs. You should also place food and water bowls in low, reachable areas. There are even orthopedic beds and litter boxes with lower front lips that you can buy to make things easier.

As you can see, there are plenty of things that you can do today to make your pet’s senior years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If you’re unsure of what to do, then talk to your vet. If you would like to learn more about the services offered by Spirit Pet Urns,