Aging is simply a normal part of life, even for pets. Just like with humans, the care requirements will change for senior pets. Also, like with humans, senior pets will become more prone to disease and less mobile. If you want to give your pet the healthiest and happiest senior life possible, here are a few health tips.
Schedule Routine Visits to the Vet
As your pet gets older, he or she will need to visit the vet more regularly. Your pet will be more susceptible to injury and vulnerable to contracting illnesses and diseases, so by taking your pet to the vet more often, these issues can be caught early on, allowing for treatment to be started early.
Change Your Pet's Diet
Senior pets tend to be far less active, and because of this, they do not require near as many calories as they did when they were younger. This is something important for pet owners to understand because weight gain can result in or worsen many health issues. If you are unsure what the best diet is for your pet, schedule an appointment with your vet to figure out the best options based on your pet's individual circumstances.
Maintain a Regular Exercise Routine
It is important for your pet to keep moving, regardless of his or her age. In fact, it is may be even more important for exercise to be part of your pet's day-to-day routine the older that he or she gets. While your pet may not be able to jump and run the way that he or she used to, keeping your pet active will help keep your pet's weight down, joints healthy, and brain stimulated.
Create a Senior Pet-Friendly Home
The older your pet gets, the more difficult it will be for your pet to get around the house and even outdoors. Therefore, it is a good idea to consider making some changes that will make it easier for your canine to move around. Some examples may include a ramp if you have stairs (inside and outside), an orthopedic bed, and a sweater to keep him or her warm.
Focus on Your Pet's Quality of Life
While you and your pet may have once enjoyed taking long walks or hikes, this may not be something you can enjoy together any longer. However, this does not mean that you can enjoy one another's company still. For instance, your pet would love to spend time in bed or on the couch cuddling. Your pet would love to receive more attention from you in terms of a basic conversation (regardless of how silly you may feel like it is). Your pet would love for you to purchase his or her favorite treats. Simply spend quality time with your pet, as this will provide him or her a far better quality of life during his or her senior years.
For more information on taking care of your pet during his or her senior years, contact a pet geriatric service in your area.
