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Caring For Your Senior Pet At Home

Senior pets often require more care and attention the older they get as they become prone to certain health problems. It’s very important to keep a close eye on your furry friends and know the best ways to help them in their golden years.

Common ailments in senior pets

Senior dogs and cats can face many age-related health issues including obesity, arthritis, vision & hearing loss. Some of these problems like obesity and joint issues related to arthritis can be prevented or treated by changing your pets’ diet. Although some of these ailments are hard to anticipate such as cancer or vision loss, it’s important to be aware of the kinds of issues your pet can face as they age.

Administering medication at home

Many senior dogs we care for at PHC take some form of medication. These can come in many forms like pills, supplements, powders, and injections. Depending on the type of medication, you’ll need to find a hassle-free way of administering them to your pet, especially if they need to take it every day. Pills and supplements can easily be masked in your pets’ food or by wrapping them in a treat. Make sure to read the instructions carefully so you always know how much to administer, how often, and whether there are timing factors to consider (i.e. before/after eating).

When to seek veterinary care

Senior dogs and cats need to be seen more often by the vet in order to detect any oncoming physical ailments they may start to develop. Early detection is imperative in getting the best treatment for your pet.

Keeping senior pets happy and healthy

Senior pets are often not as energetic as they were in their younger years but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to have fun with you! Going on walks, playing games, and socializing with other dogs can help them stay healthy and sharp as long as you don’t overdo it! It’s important to take into consideration your senior pet’s physical limitations when being active. Grooming your pet and brushing their teeth are a few of the best ways to keep your senior dog healthy. As your pet ages, they may not be able to groom themselves as thoroughly due to aching joints. Similarly, senior dogs and cats’ teeth become more sensitive and prone to infection the older they get. Hemp oil is a natural treatment that is becoming popular amongst pet owners to calm their pets’ nerves and relieve pain. Hemp oil can also have amazing benefits for dogs that suffer from allergies, cancer, glaucoma, separation anxiety, sundowners, seizures, and more. Consider adding it to your pet’s meals to help with a variety of common ailments and other types of inflammation-related pain. Need help choosing the perfect hemp oil, ask us!

How a pet care professional can help

Pet sitters can help you give your aging pet the extra care and attention they need. Pet and Home Care’s pet professionals are always available for help exercising your pet, administering medication, and giving lots of love and snuggles. We are here for you!

Give us a call at (301) PET – CARE to talk to our staff about how we can create a personalized care plan for your aging pet.