Having a senior pet is a great privilege and a huge responsibility. When your furry friends get older, they need you to care for them in new ways to keep them happy and healthy. This can mean more time, money, and attention to caring for their needs, but it also means that you are giving back the love and companionship they’ve given you for many years.
Understanding how you can properly care for your older pet is the first step in showing them how you feel about them. Below are some ways to properly take care of your senior pet:
1. Go for Adventures
It’s hard for many seniors to get around like they used to, so taking your pet for a walk can be difficult. Walking them around the neighborhood or park can help keep their joints loose. Old dogs and cats still love to be active and constantly remind you when they want to go out. This will help to keep them happy and healthy by providing them with a predictable routine and the opportunity for some quality time.
When taking your senior pet for walks, you must be aware of any signs of arthritis or difficulty walking. This is especially important if they are still very active and like to run. If your pet has difficulty walking, consider carrying them so they can continue to get out and enjoy the world around them. A large fenced yard may be a better option for senior pets that don’t want to move around much anymore.
2. Consider At-Home Euthanasia
Although it might be hard, you should prepare yourself for the possibility of your pet’s death in the future. Many pet owners struggle with deciding when or if to euthanize their pets. This is especially true after they have become family members and are no longer just pets. When an animal passes away, it can be a very emotional time for everyone in the family, even if you know it is coming.
There are various types of adult dog and cat at-home euthanasia methods that are ethical and humane ways to ensure your pets don’t suffer any more than they have to. For example, at-home euthanasia in Boston allows you to be at ease with your decision to euthanize your pet with confidence.
3. Feed Them Well
Many senior pets need more protein in their diet because their metabolism slows down, and the amount of energy they use decreases as well. You also need to be careful about how much food your pet eats. That is because too much food can cause digestive problems and gassiness, so it’s important to keep track of what they eat.
Various commercial feeds for senior pets include more calories and higher amounts of protein. These feeds can be very helpful for keeping your senior pet healthy, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them to ensure they are not overeating.
4. Keep Regular Vet Appointments
If your pets are senior, ensuring they get regular vet checkups is even more important than ever. Arthritis can cause a lot of pain; if it gets bad enough, you may need to look into surgery or medications. It’s also important to stay up on all of your pet’s vaccinations and keep them updated with any medical conditions they may have.
At times the condition of your pet might be manageable, but it’s important to also keep in mind that there is still some quality of life factors. You’ll want to be careful about making choices for your pet that might prolong their life at the possible cost of their quality.
5. Regular Grooming is Key
Older pets also need regular grooming to keep their skin healthy and safe. This doesn’t mean you need to get your pet a professional groomer. However, it does mean that you should consider getting your pet brushed at least once a week.
Use mild shampoos and conditioners to clean your pet’s skin and coat. Dry skin and dandruff are particularly common with older pets. So, you’ll want to take the time to ensure they are clean and comfortable. You can get the right grooming tools and products at any local pet store.
6. Provide Plenty of Rest
Senior pets need a lot of rest now more than ever before. They are also more likely to experience chronic pain than younger pets, so they may need more help getting comfortable. Ensure they get the rest they need, especially if mobility issues keep them up during the day. This means that you need to make sure they are resting in a comfortable position.
Conclusion
Consider some things if you have a senior pet at home. Not all of these things may apply to your situation, but it’s important to consider them before moving forward. The best part about senior pets is that as long as they are properly cared for and loved, they can live a long life.
