Full Service Pet Care in Sussex County including:
dog walking
pet sitting
pet taxi
Senior Pet Care
At When U R Not There Pet Care, we understand aging pets require unique care. If you have long days at the office and need someone to come in to spend time with the cat or walk your dog or let them out to potty, and give TLC or even administer medication, please call on When U R Not There Pet Care to help you help your pet.
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Pets are living longer now than they ever have before. Many pet parents struggle with the realization that their dog is getting older. It is important to recognize the signs of aging and take measures to ensure your dog’s quality of life doesn’t change. He might sleep more, eat less and show less interest in things that he used to like. That happens with people too. Many senior pets begin to feel the discomfort of hearing loss, arthritis, vision loss, joint pain, and simply “spoil me because I deserve it” syndrome. However, there are things you can do to make your senior pet feel his best and get the most out of his golden years.
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Suggestions for Pet Care For Your Senior Pet:
1. Exercise or play with your pet.
Your dog may be slowing down but that doesn’t mean he should spend his days curled up on the couch. Many senior pets suffer from arthritis and weight issues relative to the aging process. Regular exercise will keep your pet’s bones and muscles strong and limber, which will reduce pain associated with aging as well as keep the pounds off. Not to mention, exercise will keep your pet emotionally well and mentally alert. ​ Your dog may not be able to go on long hikes with you but shorter, less strenuous walks will keep him feeling good. Exercise is critical to keeping your pet youthful and keeping a pet lean as they age is one of the most important factors in preventing health issues.
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2. Love your pet just as you loved him when he was a puppy or kitten. Shower him with attention and love. Walks and talks, planned play time, a back yard romp – do whatever it takes to make his retirement years the best possible. Be patient when he makes mistakes. You’ll be old one day too. Keep in mind the many years of loyalty and companionship that he has provided you and your family with. You will never have another like him. Show him how very much he means to you. 1. Make regular visits to the veterinary clinic for well checks. In your pet’s golden years, early detection is the key to helping him live out his last years as comfortable and as healthy as possible. Routine exams, lab work and behavioral assessments from a trained doctor can help keep your pet in tip top shape.
3. Keep dental hygiene a priority. As your pet ages, dental care continues to be an imperative part of the health care regime. You can also use dental treats and chews as an alternate way to keep your pet’s teeth clean. When brushing your pet’s teeth, you may be most successful with a baby tooth brush. It’s easier on you and your pet. A quick brush of the teeth and gums will keep infection at bay. Infections due to poor dental health can spread to the brain and other areas of the body.
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4. Continue to feed your pet a high quality diet. Talk to your vet about adjusting quantity and frequency of food. As your pet ages and his lifestyle changes, some minor adjustments to his diet may be needed.
5. Make regular visits to the veterinary clinic for well checks. In your pet’s golden years, early detection is the key to helping him live out his last years as comfortable and as healthy as possible. Routine exams, lab work and behavioral assessments from a trained doctor can help keep your pet in tip top shape.
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