Since I spent Saturday talking about end-of-life and hospice care for senior pets with Dr. Robin Elms, and since my article for Downeast Dog this month is on that very subject, I thought a fitting topic for EnvironMental Monday would be creating a senior-friendly home for the aging dog. Just as with people, senior dogs have specific needs. Here then are a few suggestions to help our guys live out those twilight years with comfort and dignity.
(1) Soft places are key. Old bones aren't compatible with bare floors. There are plenty of great dog beds out there for senior pups, like the one pictured below from Drs Foster and Smith. Be sure to have a couple of beds scattered around the house so your pup can be comfortable wherever he chooses to lay his weary head.
(2) Jumping is a young dog's sport. For arthritic hips and painful joints, jumping onto the couch or into the car can be a mighty feat. To make it easy on your aging dog, invest in a pet staircase or doggy ramp. Watch how your hound navigates the stairs at home, as well - if he's having lots of trouble, consider limiting his trips up and down the stairs or investing in an aid to help him make the trek, and talk to your veterinarian about adding glucosamine to his diet to ease joint pain and reduce inflammation.
(3) Create quiet zones. Your old dog may have been the belle of the ball at one time, but age can change things - aches and pains may make him short-tempered and less inclined to tolerate rowdy children or younger, more playful pets. Don't isolate your senior dog by any means, but watch his reactions - and don't ask him to put up with squealing toddlers pulling his tail or feisty pups chewing on his paws. Have respect for your old dog - remember, he's earned his retirement. Now, it's time for you to do your part by making his golden years a peaceful, happy time.
(4) Consider having a senior spa day. Doggy massage or aquatherapy may sound expensive, but it can be as simple as settling into rub your pup's hips and gently work his leg and shoulder joints, or taking him for a romp in the local swimming hole. If your old dog suffers from joint pain, hip dysplasia, or arthritis, massage and swimming are great, inexpensive ways to work out the kinks. Check out this post from the Senior Dog Blog for the most effective ways to massage your senior dog.
(5) Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Senior pets need plenty of fresh water. Consider purchasing a doggy water fountain like the one pictured below from PetSmart, to be sure your pup is getting the water he needs. If you notice that your senior dog still doesn't seem to be drinking as much as you think he should, check out this post for other innovative ideas to get water past your old boy's (or girl's) lips. Be attentive - there are often physical reasons for why a dog is not eating or drinking. Be sure to call your vet if the problem persists.
And finally, don't forget to enjoy this time. Whether you've known each other for years or you're one of the very special people who has adopted an older pet, the warmth and wisdom of the senior dog is a wonderful thing. Take time to relax, go for slow walks, and smell the roses. Every day with an old dog is truly a gift!
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