If your dog has reached senior status, he or she may need just a little extra attention to make life easier. Here are some tips from Dr. Anne Chauvet of Critical Vet Care.
- Memory foam or egg crate bedding can help to cushion sore and tired muscles and joints
- If you have a step down to access your lanai or backyard – consider adding a short, low-rise ramp to make getting outside easier
- Dogs with hip dysplasia or other problems with their back-ends can benefit from the assistance of a sling – and it will help you to raise them to their feet when they need to get up.
- Florida homes often feature tile floors which are great for clean-up but not so great for a dog trying get traction to walk. Carpet is out of the question but you could try some carpet squares or even a yoga mat to provide your dog with some stability.
- Elevated food and water bowls just make sense
- Keep a stash of Arnica Montana around for sudden pain or trauma to ease the inflammation and pain. Available at most drug stores.
Your dog deserves the best. We hope these ideas will make life more comfortable for your pet and for you too.