Pets and Their People Blog

This blog post earned Honorable Mention in the Pet Professional Guild’s Pets and Their People Celebrating Life Together  community outreach competition in the Pet Professional Activities- Write a Blog Post category.

As our dogs get older, they start to change physically, emotionally, cognitively and behaviorally, and that change can impact us – more barking, restlessness at night, noise sensitivity, health issues that can be emotionally and financially challenging. Watching our beloved family member go from a bouncy happy dog to one who is slowing down is hard. But there are things you can do that will help you and your dog.

1. Proactive Health Care

According to The American Veterinary Medical Association, “Almost 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer.” When health concerns are detected early, the outcomes could be better. So, when you notice changes, seek medical advice. Remember, not everything is noticeable, so don’t delay blood tests and health checks. Also, find out about the best supplements for your dog.

2. Eat, Drink, Sleep

A good night’s sleep can play a vital role for not only physical and mental well-being but behaviorally too.

We are what we eat, and too many processed foods, sugar, etc. can make us sluggish, unable to function or likely to get irritable. It’s the same with dogs too. Ensuring they are hydrated with fresh water and adding foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, like blueberries and sardines, to their meals can be beneficial in supporting brain and joint function.

3. “Motion is Lotion”

Movement for senior dogs is so imperative to keep their joints supple. A little bit of exercise every day is beneficial, as arthritis is a common condition many senior dogs develop. It’s also the perfect time to let them sniff and use their noses, which is beneficial too. Equally, for us getting out and about is good for the mind, body and soul.

Try videoing your dogs, even in slow motion, to capture their movement. You can then share this information with your vet.

4. Enriching Our Lives

You can teach an old dog new tricks! Enrichment games can help them cognitively. Getting them to search for their food and using food puzzles can help to slow down decline.

5. Finding Joy

Being a guardian to a senior dog can be stressful, so getting help from a friend or professional can be helpful.

Find moments to relax in nature, get coffee with friends, and do the things that you enjoy. Refilling your emotional bank account will allow you to show up for your senior dog better when things become more challenging.

Here is the reality…dogs don’t live as long as we do. So, whilst your dog may be slowing down, don’t stop doing the things that bring you joy together. So, what if that walk takes a bit longer? Dance, sing silly songs with them, laugh and be grateful for Every. Single. Day. Dogs teach us so much, in particular to live in the moment and enjoy being together. Afterall,

“Today is a gift. That’s why we call it the present.”

– Eleanor Roosevelt

---

About the Author

Emma Hamilton is the co-founder of Paws Mindfully based in Western Sydney, Australia. Emma’s journey with dog training started with writing a blog in 2016 based on the experience of managing two beautiful dogs, Sunny and Grommie and their reactivity with each other.

Inspired by their own dogs, the partners and founders of Paws Mindfully love helping dogs and their humans manage various struggles using positive, force-free methods, with fun game-based training. They particularly have a fondness for senior dogs and believe you can teach an old dog new tricks. You can visit their website for more information.

---

About Celebrating Life Together – PPG’s Advocacy Event Raising Awareness for Humane, Ethical, and Effective Pet Training and Care 

Part 1 – Community Outreach Competition

• A Community Outreach Event where participants developed educational messages, videos, infographics, and blogs to circulate on their social media and in their local communities.
• An event designed to provide great examples of positive reinforcement training and pet care procedures that all pet guardians can embrace.

Part 2 – Virtual Education Event NOW A RECORDED PACKAGE

• A total of 67 hours of education!
• Registrants get access to the session recordings for one year.
• CEUs are available.