Aging is a natural process, and all dogs reach old age at some point in their lives. Dogs reach adulthood at varied ages, depending on breed and size. If your dog is 7-8 years old, he is considered a senior dog, equivalent to 45-50 years in humans. As time passes, these signs of aging worsen, and nighttime wandering, disorientation, stair difficulty, and interior accidents occur. With a little effort, you can provide your senior dog with the care and comfort he or she requires in their final days.
How to help your elderly dog get around?
Here are some pointers to help your elderly dog get around and don’t forget to look up “dog or cat checkup near me” to asses the health of your elderly pet.
Take short walks.
Don’t stop walking your dog because he or she is old and lazy. Walks give dogs exercise, mental stimulation, and a sense of belonging. Just be careful not to overdo it. In warm weather, halt them when they begin to slow down, and in cold weather, clothe them in improper outdoor attire, such as a sweater or coat. Rethink your idea of a walk. A stroll down the driveway might be a fun outing on occasion.
Make your traction pads.
Adhere a piece of outdoor carpet to slick steps and use non-slip rugs indoors to improve traction. If you have an unused yoga mat folded up in your closet, you may use it as a traction aid indoors and outdoors; it’s simple to cut to fit if you don’t need the entire length or width.
Rearrange the furniture in the house to improve mobility.
Rearrange your furniture as much as possible to allow your dog to move around your home. Even a stray magazine or slipper can cause an arthritic dog to stumble and fall. Block any areas where they could become trapped.
Purchase a ramp or steps.
Dog ramps and steps are available online and in pet stores and recommended by a dog orthopedic surgeon. Keep in mind that many senior dogs are resistant to change, and ramps and steps may terrify them. Never insist on their use.
Use towels to your advantage.
You can use them to bring your small dog outside by wrapping him in them. Alternatively, if your huge dog has movement concerns, you can use a large towel as a sling. Dog slings are available both online and in pet stores.
How to keep your senior dog clean?
Here are some suggestions for keeping your elderly dog clean.
Rinse and repeat.
We kept a water-filled plastic container in the backyard throughout our dog’s final summer. The sun warmed the water, and he could always use it to clean himself if he got dirty. However, keep in mind that your elderly dog is susceptible to temperature changes whether they become wet or dry, and warm them as soon as possible.
Utilize rags.
Keep rags on hand at all times, and look for special drying towels at your local pet store. Your elderly canine may not be able to shake off the water as effectively as he previously could, so these thirsty towels will come in handy.
If necessary, diaper up.
Contrary to popular perception, you can use doggie diapers. Other products meant for potty-training puppies may also benefit your older dog. For example, pee pads provide a comfortable bed for folks who have accidents while sleeping. Washable waterproof pads (usually available at medical supply stores and manufacturers of children’s bedding) are also suitable for this purpose; simply purchase many pads to always have a clean one. Deodorizers will aid in keeping your home livable.
We’ve all had nice times with our pets, but there will come a time when they must say goodbye, and if that time comes, click here to learn more to make their final moments easier.
Conclusion
Caring for elderly pets can be emotionally draining, but it can also be a blessing. It is an opportunity for you to agree on difficult final decisions and talk about your thoughts about the upcoming loss. Even more importantly, the experience gives you one last chance to convey your feelings for the best dog.
