Keep Your Senior Pet Active and Mobile by Following These Tips

5 Ways to Help Your Senior Pet Remain Mobile

As your pet ages, they likely will experience stiff, achy joints caused by osteoarthritis. Fortunately, you have many options to help keep your senior pet active and mobile throughout their golden years.

#1: Add traction to slick surfaces

Your polished hardwood floor's beauty is lost on your senior pet as they slip and slide across the slick surface. Provide traction by putting carpet runners or yoga mats down to create pathways for your pet to move around your house.

#2: Position ramps or stairs next to furniture

Jumping on or off furniture puts a great deal of stress on sore joints, so make it easy for your pet to climb up to their favorite resting spot with stairs or ramps.

#3: Apply traction aids to paws

To help your four-legged friend gain traction on slippery surfaces, apply traction aids to their paws and nails. Toe grips can help dogs grab onto slick floors better.

#4: Use a harness or sling

Large dogs may struggle to get their hind legs under them when first rising. Prevent potential pain and flailing by using a specially designed harness or sling to help support your dog's hind end.

#5: Elevate your pet's food and water dishes

Many older pets develop osteoarthritis in their elbows, making it painful to crouch down to reach their food or water. Help your pet out by raising their food and water bowls to a comfortable level.

Senior pets suffering from osteoarthritis can benefit from joint and mobility supplements. See if your pet would benefit from supplements or medications by scheduling an appointment with our team.