8 Ways to Keep a Senior Dog Comfortable

Is your dog entering his golden years? It sometimes seems like our canine pals grow from bouncing, frisky puppies to sweet, laid-back seniors in the blink of an eye. Your faithful pet will never outgrow his love of bacon and belly rubs, but he will benefit from some extra care as he ages. A Columbia, TN vet offers some tips on keeping a senior dog comfortable in this article. 

Bedding

Senior dogs are absolutely adorable when they are snoozing peacefully in their beds. Make sure that Fido has a comfy bed to doze off in. Your canine buddy won’t sleep well on a thin pad! We recommend orthopedic beds for older dogs. 

Exercise

Fido won’t be as energetic as he once was, but he’ll still benefit from regular activity. Most dogs need at least a daily walk. Just be careful not to overexert your pup!

Veterinary Care

Your furry friend can’t tell you if something is bothering him. Regular exams greatly increase the chances of developing issues being caught—and therefore treated—in their early stages. This can be very beneficial! You’ll also want to keep up with your dog’s vaccinations and parasite control products. At home, watch for signs of illness or injury. Call us right away if you notice anything amiss.

Grooming

Your four-legged friend may not be thrilled about getting bathed, but he’ll be much more comfortable with clean, soft fur. Keep up with Fido’s beauty care needs! This includes claw trims and dental care. 

Elevated Dishes

Many pups are more comfortable eating off elevated dishes than from bowls on the floor. Get Fido some raised dishes.

Pet Ramps 

As Fido ages, he may have trouble climbing stairs and getting in and out of the car. Pet ramps or steps will help keep your furry pal more mobile.

Keep Fido Trim

We know, dogs manage to be extra adorable when they’re hoping you’ll share your food. However, it’s very easy for older pets to pack on extra pounds. That would put a lot of additional strain on Fido’s bones and joints. Keep your pooch at or near his ideal weight.

Climate Control

Older dogs get very sensitive to temperature extremes. Don’t let Fido get too hot or too cold! 

Please contact us if ever we can be of assistance. As your Columbia, TN vet clinic, we’re here to help!