KEEP YOUR SENIOR PET HEALTHY AND HAPPY WITH THESE STEPS
Owning an older pet comes with a lot of responsibilities, from setting up veterinary visits to making sure they’re safe and comfortable at home. It can also be costly, but there are several things you can do to easily take care of your animal without breaking the bank or affecting his health conditions. Preventative care is key, which is why you’ll need to stay on top of vet visits and medications. You might also consider adopting a second pet to prevent loneliness. Here are a few tips for caring for your older pet and keeping him safe, from guest author, Nick Burton:
Stay on Top of Their Medication Needs
Many senior pets take daily medication or require preventative care, and it’s crucial to stay on top of that schedule. There are several ways to go about it, such as setting up a pill case or marking your calendar, but it’s still easy to forget certain times using those methods. A simple way to make sure you’re always on top of things is to use a smart speaker, which will remind you automatically when your pet is ready for a dose. Do some research and compare prices and models to ensure you get the right fit for your needs.
Make Sure He Gets the Care He Needs
Even if you’re on top of medication and preventative care, your senior pet will likely still have vet appointments throughout the year, and these can get costly. Look for resources that will help you pay for treatment or surgeries, including organizations that can provide financial assistance or even crowdfunding campaigns. You can also talk to your veterinarian about setting up a payment plan or booking an appointment at a clinic, which may have lower fees.
Keep Them Safe
While regular checkups and preventative care is important for older pets, it’s also crucial to make sure they’re safe at home. Senior animals often have a hard time navigating floors without carpeting, stairs, and raised thresholds, but you can prevent falls and injuries by laying down secure throw rugs, putting up baby gates to close off certain rooms, or adding small mobility ramps inside and outside your home. Keep a clean towel near the door to wipe off his feet when it rains to prevent slips, especially in the kitchen or garage where floors are typically slick when wet.
You will also look for other hazards, particularly electrical ones, in your home office area. Be mindful of any cables you have running across the floor, as they can be trip hazards. Your home’s electrical circuits should also be examined for any incidences of overloading, which can be a fire hazard.
Spoil Them a Bit
Finally, add some relaxation time to your pet’s day by offering gentle massages, a soft bed to lounge in, and some quiet playtime whenever possible. Older pets benefit greatly from loving interactions and touch, and they’ll always enjoy a good treat as well. Talk to your vet about the best treat options for your dog’s dietary needs, and ask about a supplement for joint health that will prevent pain, especially during the winter or on rainy days. You can also ensure that he always has plenty of fresh, cold water to drink and that he’s well-groomed, since this can prevent bathroom messes and falls.
Taking care of an older pet requires a few more steps than a younger pet does, but by working out a good care plan with your vet and staying on top of his medication and exercise regimen, you can keep him happy and healthy. Make sure your home is a safe haven for him and take steps to ensure his comfort throughout the year.
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Nick Burton is the co-creator of Our Best Doggo. He is a proud parent to three rescue dogs, together with his wife, Mary. When they lost their oldest dog, Willie, a 15-year old lab/terrier mix, the couple decided to create a website where they can share all types of dog information to help people cope with mourning the loss of a furbaby. Visit them at Our Best Doggo