Tips to Look After Your Ageing Cats or Dogs

Handy tips to help your senior pet

• The following senior-specific tips will repay the loyalty and companionship your pet has shown over the years:
• Help them reach their food better by raising their bowls off the floor.
• Give your pet the opportunity for regular exercise to help preserve muscle tone and to keep bones and joints strong. Remember, your senior pet is slowing down, so make sure the exercise is less strenuous – easy relaxed walks are great!
• Consider using a ramp to help them get into difficult areas, for example the car.
• Be on the look out for new inventions such as paw gel pads or booties which help provide traction for unstable dogs or slippery floors.
• Because senior pets are often less active, inspect your pet’s nails on a regular basis and trim them when necessary.
• Don’t overlook your pet’s dental health. Have your pet’s teeth cleaned by your veterinarian when advised as bad teeth can have serious health consequences for older pets.
• Keep your pet’s bed in an easily accessible spot. Ensure it’s easy to climb onto, warm and comfortable
• Give your senior pet a massage! Great relaxation therapy for your pet...and you!
• Consider using holistic treatments to supplement your pet’s health such as acupuncture – a needling treatment method which uses your pet’s body’s own ability to heal itself.
• Don’t forget to give your pet plenty of love and attention – the keys to a healthier and more fulfilling life for your best friend!