Six Tips for You and Your Senior Pet

At Deceased Pet Care, we know your pet is part of the family. It seems like just yesterday the pup was running around the house with the kids. It wasn’t long before he knew all the tricks, and participated in almost every facet of your life. But what do you do when your pet becomes older? This month, we want to provide some important tips, tricks, and information, so your pet can have the most comfortable and most productive season of life yet.

Ask Their Age
While it’s generally considered socially taboo to ask the age of human, it’s important as a pet owner you understand the age of your beloved companion. Age affects different pets in different ways, but a general consensus is a pet is considered “senior” when in the final quarter of his or her life. In a dog, that starts between 6-10 years old, depending on size. In a cat, it begins around 10 years. After you become aware of your pet’s age, you can be on the lookout for several opportunities to improve the life of your pet.

The Never-Ending Diet
It’s a running joke that we will all start our diet tomorrow, but for your pet, that diet needs to start today. As your pet ages, it is imperative their diet changes too. Older pets have different physiological needs, and there are several brands on the market that provided everything from improved nutrition, to softer food that is easier to digest. Talk to your veterinarian to see when the right time is to start your pooch on a proper mature diet.

Visit the Vet
As a conscientious pet owner, you’re already taking your pet to the veterinarian for their annual health and wellness assessment. But as your pet enters the golden senior season, it is recommended you double your visits to the vet. That’s twice a year. As you pet ages, several complications can arise. The earlier they can be diagnosed, the earlier they can be treated… and in many cases prevented. The increased bill is a small price to pay for many more years of health and happiness with your pet.

Open Wide
As your pet ages, caring for his or her teeth takes extra precedent. Quality oral hygiene is the foundation of a healthier life. After a cleaning at the vet, add the daily brushing of your pet’s teeth to the schedule. If you cannot find time, or if you pet is adverse to teeth brushing, add quality chew toys and treats designed to clean your pet’s mouth, and keep those chompers in tip top shape.

Say That You Love Me
As your pet ages, their needs change, and in many ways, increase. There a few ways to say, or rather show, your pet just how much you love them. First, increase physical touch -- a little extra ear scratchin’ or belly rubbin’ will remind your pet just how much you think of them. Second, be intentional about exercise -- obesity in older pets can be detrimental to their health. Make sure walks and activity are a regular part of their lives. Third, make it comfy and cozy -- investing in a dog or cat bed will give your pet a comfortable place to crash as they inevitably become tired from all the extra attention you’re doting upon them.

Keep an Eye Out.
As your pet ages, the most important thing you can do is be vigilant. Watch for changes in your pet's mood or behavior. Stiff joints, lethargy, arthritis, and mood changes can all point to greater issues. As always, consult your vet with any worries you might have.

So there are just six quick and easy ways you can help your pet age with grace. At Deceased Pet Care, we want you to enjoy as many quality years with your pet as possible. Age can be a gift, and with proper care, and effort, the senior season can be you and your pet’s best yet.

Photocredit: mnn.com