If your companion animals are nearing senior status, here are four quick reminders to keep them feeling and looking great. Regular interaction through play time and general care, you are likely to be the first one to notice changes in a furry friends’ behavior as they age, and the benefits of bonding remain no matter the age of the furry forever friends in your home.  Pay attention!  Make sure to identify all noticed changes and your concerns and write them down so you can clearly address them with your veterinarian during your appointments; a bullet point list of questions in hand offers a proactive way to manage your companion animal’s care.

• Dietary Changes – If you notice any change to appetite or weight (increased or decreased), you may want to consider adjusting the food and treats to maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise – Just like humans, your companion animals may need a different exercise schedule as they age, and often slight modifications can improve overall quality of life. You may need to take breaks, shorten duration, and reduce intensity. It’s easy to take shorter walks; take more breaks on longer walks; and for dogs who love to fetch, toss or roll a toy a short distance.  Lowered height of “teaser toys” and intermittent breaks may also help your senior cat continue to enjoy play time.  Even simple and slight adjustments may offer all the enjoyable bonding experience of playtime without exacerbating many physical conditions associated with aging.
• Household Adjustments –  Small adjustments can make a big difference.  Some dogs may need booster steps to jump into the car, while cats may benefit from re-arranging furniture to enable them to reach different levels of height without the strain of jumping.
• Regular Veterinary Care – As your companion animals age, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for frequency of care to ensure optimal health!  Whatever challenges your senior companion animal faces, talk with your veterinarian.  Ask for their suggestions about simple steps you can take to improve their quality of life as they age.