Guest Blog by Jennifer Brody
Our pets get older just like we do. And just like us, their needs change along the way. It’s up to us to keep them as healthy and happy as possible. That means investing in the right supplies, learning how to give them medication, and making any necessary modifications to their lifestyle, among other things. If you have a senior pet, consider the practical, budget-friendly advice below for how you can help them thrive in their golden years.
Find a Trusted Professional
You may not always be able to take your pet with you places. For the times you need to go out of town, for example, it’s essential that you have a plan for your pet to be taken care of. Look for a qualified, reliable pet sitter for such occasions. If you use the services of PHL PETS, you can ensure that your pet will be safe and well cared for while you’re gone, and you’ll get affordable rates as well.
Invest in Supplies
As your pet gets older, you will likely need to adjust some of the purchases you make. For instance, many senior pets have different dietary needs than younger ones; low-calorie and high-fiber foods are common among senior pets. If your pet has joint or muscle issues, a pet ramp can help them access vehicles, furniture, and other everyday items. Heated and elevated beds can also help with joint and muscle issues.
These are just a few of many products that can enhance your senior pet’s life. Spend time researching all the products available on the market to determine what could be helpful for your furry family member. And if you shop at retailers like Walmart and PetSmart, you can save a significant amount of money. Plus, using online savings opportunities, such as a promo codes, can save you even more at checkout.
Learn How to Administer Medication
If your pet takes medication, you will need to ensure that you know how to administer it the right way. And this might take a little bit of trial and error, as well as a little advice from the veterinarian.
For example, medications in pill form are often the easiest to give because you can hide them in your pet’s food or treats that hold pills. To save some cash, you can learn how to make your own pill pockets! If your pet is required to take liquid medication, it’s important to use the right kind of syringe. You may need to research various techniques for administering the meds if your pet is resisting.
Modify Where Necessary
Finally, lifestyle changes are perhaps the most essential part of keeping your pet healthy and happy in their golden years. Along with adjusting their diet, make any necessary changes to their exercise routine. It’s still critical that older pets get physical activity, but you will need to monitor your pet closely and opt for milder activities, such as slower, longer walks. You also may need to take them for more frequent walks and potty breaks, especially if they are showing signs of incontinence.
Moreover, rather than taking your pet to the veterinarian once a year, as is typical for younger pets, you should take them every six months. This will help you and your pet stay in front of potential diseases and other health issues. If you need help paying for veterinarian care, there are various resources worth researching — from charity services to pet insurance to medical credit cards.
If your pet is getting on in years, you want to do everything you can to prolong their health and well-being — and doing so doesn’t have to cost a ton of money. Look for a trustworthy pet sitter to look after them when you’re away, and always be on the lookout for products that can make your pet healthier and more comfortable. Finally, make sure you’re administering your pet’s medications correctly, and remain open-minded to any modifications that can help your furry companion live a better life.
For reliable dog walking, pet sitting, or boarding services in Philly, contact phlpets.com today!