Pet Care Tips to Keep Your Senior Pup Going Strong

Age can really take a toll on everyone, including our beloved canine companions. Of course, as a pet parent, you want to make your furry friend’s golden years the best yet. So read on for some essential tips from Very Important Puppiesthat can help you do just that!

Ensure Medical Needs

Just like humans, dogs often develop more health concerns as they get older. Arthritis, kidney disease, dementia, cancer, and waning hearing and vision are just a few of the issues senior dogs might experience. Teeth are also a concern, as PetFinder points out that older dogs also need routine dental care. This includes brushing their teeth, using chew toys, and dental cleanings which are done under anesthesia.  

Routine visits to your vet can help nip health problems in the bud. Senior dogs should visit the vet at least twice annually, and during that time your vet will assess whether your dog requires dental cleaning, bloodwork, vaccines, and so forth. There are also veterinarians who specialize in particular aspects of an animal’s well-being and depending on the circumstances, you might work with a specialist at times.

Funding Pet Insurance and Medical Bills

Depending on the age of your senior pup, you’d be wise to invest in pet insurance (many insurers have age maximums) in case your pet needs any expensive procedures. If your dog is too old for insurance and you’re facing a large vet bill, programs such as YouCaring.com and RedRover can help needy pet owners. If you’re a homeowner, another option is refinancing your home and using part of the cash payment to care for your pup.

Hands-On Maintenance

Knowing your senior pup needs something and knowing how to handle it aren’t always the same thing. As much as dogs like to please, they don’t always recognize we’re doing them a favor when it’s time to tend them. For instance, even younger dogs often object to having their toenails trimmed, so it can get all the more challenging when your dog has achy joints thrown in the mix. As Senior Dog Days explains, investing in the right tools and going slowly can make the toenail cutting process less painful for you both, but sometimes it’s best to have a professional groomer or your vet take care of it.

Keeping up with toothbrushing is a regular pet parenting woe, especially if your dog isn’t used to having things put into his mouth. To make it easier, pick up a finger brush to ease the process, and be sure to opt for a flavorful toothpaste specific to dogs.

Administering Medications

Giving your pooch medications can also be challenging. Sometimes, medications can be mixed in with their food or hidden in treats, or you might be able to turn giving pills into a game with your dog. Liquid medications can be just as tough, and you’ll want to use a syringe inserted into your pup’s cheek area. Ensure you go slowly and reassure your dog while you’re dosing him.

Equip Your Senior Pup

Besides medications and grooming, there are some other goodies available that can make life better for your senior dog. Things like lifting harnesses, steps, and orthopedic beds can help you support a dog with achy joints or back trouble, and a dog cooling mat can keep them comfortable. You might need to test-drive equipment and even do a little training with things like pet steps, but senior dogs can certainly learn new tricks, contrary to the old saying! 

An aging dog has more than earned his keep, and as a loving pet parent, you want to help him strong. You can do that very thing with proper medical care, maintenance, and some equipment. With these smart strategies, as well as the right tools, treats, and items from Very Important Puppies, your senior pup’s golden years can be his best yet. Shop today.

by Andrew Needham