6 Things Your Senior Dog Will Thank You For
Just like elderly humans, dogs require a little extra TLC when they reach their senior years. The following 6 tips will help you provide the physical and mental support your aging dog needs to thrive!
1. Provide Lots Of Cozy Bedding
Senior dogs sleep up to 20 hours a day! They need a bed that is comfortable and supportive. Many dog beds are stuffed with cheap poly-fill, making them far too soft for a senior dog’s needs.
Instead, choose a bed made from sturdy orthopedic foam to to mold to your dog’s body and support his joints. Orthopedic foam beds are especially beneficial to arthritic dogs and those suffering from other spine and joint ailments.
Be sure to place a high quality bed in every room where your dog spends significant time so he always has a comfy place to lay his head.
2. Outfit Your Home With Senior Dog Safety Features
Older dogs often have difficulty navigating stairs, furniture, and slick flooring. Simple equipment like ramps, doggy stairs, and throw rugs can help prevent injuries and anxiety.
Ramps can help large dogs go up and down outdoor stairs and get in and out of the car. Doggy stairs are great for smaller seniors that enjoy sitting on the sofa or napping on your bed.
Finally, well-placed throw rugs give your pooch the confidence to walk across slippery tile, hardwood and laminate flooring.
3. Continue To Exercise Your Dog’s Body & Mind
Senior dogs still need and enjoy physical activity, but you may have to make a few adjustments to their routine. Instead of walking the same route, allow your dog to choose how far you go and at what pace. Watch for signs of fatigue like heavy panting or limping.
When it comes to play, have your aging pooch use his mind as well as his body. Hide small treats around the yard or living room so he can search them out, or consider using a puzzle toy to engage his problem-solving skills.
4. Keep Weight Under Control
Since older dogs tend to sleep more and exercise less, changes must also be made to their diet to prevent excess weight gain. Switch to a senior formula dog food and go easy on the treats.
Most vets recommend treats make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake. Instead of offering snacks throughout the day, save them for playtime and the brain games mentioned above.
5. See Your Vet Every 6 Months – Or More
Dogs age anywhere from three to eight years for every one of our calendar years. When they reach seniorhood, it is more important than ever that they visit the vet twice a year if not more.
Healthy seniors benefit from bi-annual checkups to monitor their weight, vision, routine blood work, and any lumps or bumps. Dogs with chronic conditions should be seen even more frequently to ensure they are maintaining.
If you notice changes in appetite, activity, potty habits, or sleep patterns between visits, call for a earlier appointment.
6. Add CBD To Their Daily Routine
CBD oil is safe, non-toxic and free from the dangerous side effects often caused by prescription drugs. Plus, it offers the following benefits for senior dogs:
- Relief from joint pain
- Reduced inflammation throughout the body
- Treatment for general anxiety as well as stress associated with separation, travel, noise (thunder, fireworks), vet visits, and more!
- Brain support and healthy aging
- Appetite stimulation
- Nausea reduction
- Better sleep
Which CBD Oil Is Best For Your Senior Dog?
Cananine™ Organic Full Spectrum CBD Oil is made from 100% organic Colorado hemp. It is completely free of THC, a potentially harmful compound found in marijuana. Most hemp products contain small amounts of THC, but Cannanine removes every trace to ensure your dog’s safety.
Additionally, every batch of Cannanine is tested by an impartial third-party laboratory to verify that it is THC-free and ensure there are no heavy metals, bacteria, or mold.
View the most recent Certificates of Analysis from Pro Verde Laboratories here.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
