The worst part about pets is their shortened lifespan compared with ours. To help deal with this issue, many pet owners strive to pack as much enjoyment into their furry companions’ lives as possible, especially when they reach senior status. Fortunately, you can do a great deal to help your senior pet feel young again well throughout their golden years. Revitalize your four-legged friend with the following five methods, or use your own ideas tailored to your pet.

#1: Play with your senior pet every day

Does your senior pet seem like they want to spend all their time sleeping? Although plenty of sleep is important, play and exercise are vital for your furry pal. Your senior pet will still need daily exercise, but they may not be able to play for as long or walk as far, so modify their activity to ensure they are comfortable and having fun. Don’t forget to exercise your senior pet’s mind in addition to their body. Physical activity helps preserve muscle mass and joint health, while mental stimulation keeps your pet’s mind sharp and staves off cognitive dysfunction. Enrich your pet’s daily life with moderate, low-impact exercise and a variety of puzzle and training games for the ultimate play session. 

#2: Create a bucket list for your senior pet

While you strive to provide the best life possible for your beloved pet, you may feel that they missed out on a few things as a young cat or dog. Creating a bucket list of unique or favorite activities is a great way to spice up your senior pet’s life, but keep in mind your pet’s physical limitations and activities that may cause anxiety when you plan adventures together. Use the following ideas when designing the ideal bucket list for your senior pet:

* Go for a road trip, whether it’s around the neighborhood or across the country.

* Spend a day at the beach.

* Cook a special pet-friendly meal.

* Hang out with a favorite pet or person. 

* Visit a pet-friendly bar or restaurant. 

* Explore new trails. 

* Learn different tricks and skills.

* Join a sporting club.

#3: Manage your senior pet’s pain

One of the biggest factors that may prevent your senior pet from acting like a young pup or kitten again is pain. Arthritis or cancer pain is common in older pets, and can greatly reduce their zest for life. Fortunately, many treatments can help keep your pet’s pain at bay, and they often work better when combined. If your pet is being limited by any sort of pain, ask your family veterinarian about the following treatment modalities:

* Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)

* Opioids

* Different classes of pain-relieving medications 

* Supplements with inflammation-reducing ingredients

* Acupuncture

* Chiropractic care

* Hydrotherapy

* Physical therapy

* Laser therapy

As your pet ages and their body changes, their pain management protocol will likely need regular re-evaluation for maximum efficacy, so don’t be discouraged if one option does not appear to be working.

#4: Sign your senior pet up for a job

Retirement may sound incredibly relaxing, but pets and people can find themselves quite bored. Give your senior pet a job by undergoing classes and training to become a service animal who visits nursing homes or acts as a therapy pet while children read. Pets can help soothe anxiety, combat loneliness, and bring joy to people’s lives, and a senior pet’s calm, relaxed manner makes them especially suited for this task.

#5: Tackle your senior pet’s tartar for a healthy mouth

Most pets—up to 85%—have some form of dental disease by age 3, and without proper care and ongoing management, these pets can greatly suffer from pain and systemic infection. Keep your senior pet’s mouth in tip-top shape by scheduling routine dental cleanings with your family veterinarian, brushing your pet’s teeth at home, and providing healthy dental chews, treats, and food.  

As your beloved pet reaches their golden years, they may need additional support maintaining a good quality of life. If your pet is struggling, or contact our telehospice service for more advice on keeping your senior pet happy and healthy through their final days.