By the time your pet reaches “senior status,” you’ve spent many years loving their every version—through puppyhood when no piece of furniture was safe, into adulthood, as you learned to appreciate their unique personality and neuroses, and now as a senior, whom you love more than ever. A senior pet is truly a privilege, and it’s no wonder pet owners want to lavish them with love, and more. Here are five ways to spoil your senior pet.

#1: Invest in a quality bed for your senior pet

You know that a comfortable bed is important for a relaxing night’s sleep, and the same is true for your pet. An orthopedic bed can support your pet’s joints and provide relief from age-related discomfort. A new bed can also improve the quality of your pet’s sleep and overall health. 

#2: Give your senior pet a spa day

Keep your senior pet looking and feeling good with a trip to a pet spa or groomer. If your pet isn’t a fan of unfamiliar people and places, you can bring the spa to them, with the following at-home treatments: 

* “Pawdicure” — Long nails can be uncomfortable for your pet, and they need a trim when their nails have grown a long, thin curve. You can grab the clippers and trim them yourself, or enlist the help of a professional groomer. 

* Pet massage — You don’t have to be a certified masseuse to make your senior pet feel great. Gently stroke your pet’s back, forehead, thighs, and glutes, while watching their body language closely for signs of discomfort. 

* Polish those pearly whites — Many senior pets have tartar and plaque buildup, which can cause a variety of health issues. Schedule regular cleanings with your veterinarian, and use a pet-friendly toothpaste and brush at home, to maintain your pet’s dental health. You can also give your pet dental treats to freshen their breath, and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

#3: Serve your senior pet top-notch cuisine

Good nutrition is essential to your senior pet’s health. Speak with your veterinarian to determine your pet’s best diet choice, based on their age, weight, and health. You can add the following treats to their diet for optimal health—and one happy senior pet. 

* Bone broth —  Bone broth is full of joint-enhancing ingredients, like collagen and glucosamine, as well as other essential vitamins and minerals. Pour some broth on your pet’s kibble for an added treat that will excite the pickiest eater at mealtime. 

* Supplements — Supplements can keep your senior pet more comfortable as they age. Many veterinarians recommend joint supplements with methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine, and chondroitin, to help with arthritis and age-related discomfort. Always speak with your veterinarian before adding supplements, to ensure the ingredients won’t interfere with your pet’s current prescription medications.

#4: Stay on top of your pet’s veterinary care

While a trip to the veterinarian might not sound like pampering, senior pets require regular visits—at least every six months, depending on age and health. Your veterinarian can answer any of your questions, and offer support, information, and resources to care for your senior pet. They can also diagnose health issues earlier, and create a more effective treatment plan if they see your pet regularly.  

#5: Revamp your home to make your senior pet’s life easier 

Decreased mobility can make navigating your home more difficult for your senior pet, but you can make their life much easier with the following modifications:

* Elevated bowls — An elevated bowl places less strain on your pet's neck, hips, shoulders, and joints. 

* Stairs and ramps — Jumping can be hard on your senior pet’s joints, and you may need to invest in pet stairs, to help them access the bed or couch. For the car, a foldable ramp can help your senior pet get in and out more easily. 

* Nightlight – As your pet ages, their vision may decline. Place nightlights around your home, to help your senior pet navigate in the dark.

The best way to spoil your senior pet also happens to be the simplest—connecting with your pet every day, no matter how busy life gets. The time we have with our beloved pets is a gift. 

The last act of love you can give your senior pet is peace and comfort during their final days. Our veterinary hospice and telehospice service can provide guidance for helping your pet at the end of life. When the time is right for in-home euthanasia, contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area.