Pet care for elderly pets by Avantika Joshi
As our pets grow older, they become very sensetive and they need more attention. But sometimes due to a busy schedule and routine,we forget to give them the necessary care. For such people and all the pet lovers here are some important points to consider while taking care of your elderly pet.
When our pets get older,the signs of age inevitably set in. They slow down and sleep more often. Their eyes aren’t quite as full of mischief and they no longer jump and leap as they once did and often their eating habits change. When an animal reaches this stage,they need more attention and affection than ever before. Often times, they’ll even search that affection out more frequently. It’s as though they need the reassurance. Give your elderly pet as much love and petting as they can stand!
If your pet has trouble jumping into favourite spots,help him/her out by putting a cushion,pillow or even a step nearby.It’ll help them maintain some independence and help to prevent a possible fall as well. If your pet is an indoor pet,provide him/her with several windows to look out. This will serve as a amusement for them and keep them from becoming bored. Keep in mind,when handling your elderly pet that,he/she may have arthritis, so be very careful and very gentle – especially if they have lost a lot of weight. Weight loss can cause their bones to easily break. Most importantly,get an appointment for your lovingly pet with his/her veterinarian. The doctor can,not only make sure your pet doesn’t have any diseases,but can also give you more professional advice on caring for an older pet. They’ll recommend the required vitamins or any special food to your pet. They also can let you know if your pet does indeed have arthritis and can tell you how you can make them more comfortable.
Another way to make your elderly pet more comfortable is to warm up a blanket or a towel in the dryer for them to sleep on. It creates a warm feeling of love and caring between you and your pet. Above all, just give your elderly pet more TLC than ever before. Your friend has loved you and been there for you through thick and thin and now it’s your privilege to make their golden years a wonderful time for them.
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September 13th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
My dog, a spitz, behaves like an elderly dog. She had a bad ear infection 2 years ago and it has afffected her dramatically.
March 18th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
My tiny (13 pound) Sheltie is 14 years old and according to his veterinarian, is going strong. He has recently had problems with chronic bronchitis, which flares up every few months. His vet has put him on a diet of weight maintenance Beneful kibble in the morning, along with drained, cold canned green beans at night, with as many baby carrot treats as he wants. The teeth get daily brushing, and my little beastie is also on a daily multivitamin, brewer’s yeast, and glucosamine condroitin. He’s a much different dog that he was even six months ago!
March 31st, 2008 at 4:59 am
Very good advice here. I have pets at home and I usually ask my nieces to help out with the pet care. I agree on what you say about the vitamins and nutrition part. Interdependence is also important with aging pets. I’ve seen a few die out due to being ignored.
July 25th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Always important to realize that older pets require some extra attention while you’re away as well. They can get very sick from separation anxiety when owners go away. Make sure someone they are familiar with goes by and gives them some love and attention.