Autumn Care For Senior Pets

Is your animal partner in their golden years? Pets are adorable at any age, but they are especially charming as they age. You’ll need to make some changes to your pet’s care regimen as they become older. In some ways, older pets are simpler to care for than younger ones. However, they require extra care in other areas. You should also use caution with aged pets during this time of year. In this article, a local Burlington, ON veterinarian shares some tips for spending Halloween with your beloved retiree.

Keep Sweets And Treats Out of Paws Reach

Many households have an abundance of candy throughout the autumn season. There’s the pre-Halloween stash, the post-Halloween stash, and finally the last-minute discounts. Many popular Halloween delicacies are harmful to our pets. That list includes chocolates, raisins, and anything containing xylitol, often known as birch sugar. Hard candies are also dangerous since they can choke people. Anything heavy in fat or sugar is likewise not a suitable option for an aging dog. Choose healthful treats for your animal buddy. Your Burlington, ON veterinarian can propose suitable alternatives.

Take Caution With Fires

Candles, torches, and fire pits can all help create a cozy fall environment. While you should be cautious around fire with any pet, it is especially important to take extra precautions with elderly pets. Older animals have poorer vision and hearing than their younger counterparts do. They are also more prone to tripping and falling. Keep pets away from fireplaces and firepits. If you’re using torches or candles, keep them high and secure, out of reach of your pets.

Reduce/Limit Outdoor Time

We always advocate keeping cats inside. This goes double for elderly cats. Fluffy will not only be weaker and slower than her younger counterparts, but she may also be able to see and hear less clearly. This compounds the threats already posed by vehicles, weather, and toxins. Furthermore, Fluffy may lose track of where she is and be unable to return home.

We also recommend taking extra precautions with black cats. Unfortunately, due to historical superstitions, kittens with black fur are at risk from nasty pranksters during this time of year. Even if you do allow your pet to go out, limit her activities during the autumn holiday.

Keeping your canine companion indoors will not be an option. Fido, of course, needs to go outside to relieve himself and get some exercise. Just take some extra care. To make it easier for people to see your dog after dark, consider getting a light, reflective, or even LED leash and harness. Always keep your dog on a leash. With an older dog, your pup may be less likely to chase a squirrel, but he is more likely to trip or stumble into the road.

If you have a yard for your dog to play in, that is a little safer. However, we still advocate keeping Fido indoors during the holidays and after nightfall. It’s just always better to err on the side of caution, and keep your furry best buddy safe and sound.

Do Not Go Overboard With Costumes

We understand how charming it might be to see an older dog dressed up. Fido has worn some really gorgeous costumes throughout the years! He has played a variety of roles, including Viking, pirate, spaghetti, cheeseburger, mailman, bumblebee, and walrus. Around the winter  holidays, he may also be found sporting reindeer antlers or a Santa claws suit. 

At this point in your pet’s life, comfort should always come first. If you want to put something on your pet, be sure it’s comfortable for him. It should not be too hot, too tight, too loose, or too difficult for your pet to see or move in. 

Dog costumes should also be non-toxic and non-flammable, with no little or dangling bits that could get stuck on something. 

Pay attention to the temperature as well. Older dogs are more sensitive to weather extremes than younger dogs, so they get hotter or colder more quickly.

Keep Things Calm

People’s social calendars are filling up with events like Halloween, Friendsgiving, and football. Costumes and celebrations can be a lot of fun, but they can also be very scary for pets. Older pets also prefer things to be nice and tranquil, and they can become very agitated by anything out of the ordinary.

If you’re throwing a party or expecting trick-or-treaters, take a few precautions to keep your senior pet comfortable. You may wish to create a quiet rear area for Fido and Fluffy. Include a comfortable bed, some favorite toys, and turn on a television or radio to drown out the sounds. If your dog has a crate, he may feel more at ease in that.

If your pet becomes anxious or agitated when the doorbell rings, consult your veterinarian for advice on utilizing pet-calming remedies. There are numerous choices available, including collars, treats, and sprays.

Enjoy The Weather

This time of year, the weather is often stunning. This is an excellent opportunity to take Fido for a quiet walk or to give Fluffy a window seat on an enclosed porch.

Get Seasonal Toys

Pet product manufacturers have gone far beyond the traditional catnip mouse. You may acquire a variety of exciting seasonal toys for your pet. Fido would look wonderful with a small Dracula or Mummy plush toy. Consider getting your cat a catnip bat or spider! As Thanksgiving approaches, you might opt for more harvest-themed decor or simply keep the Halloween spirit alive!

Provide All Necessary Comforts

At this time of year, the weather will begin to cool down. Make sure your pet is warm and cozy on colder nights. Thick mattresses are essential because they not only protect your pet’s bones and joints from hard flooring, but also provide warmth and insulation on chilly nights. Grooming is also crucial. If you have a cat, you might want to start providing Fluffy some extra help with her beauty routine. Senior cats often have difficulty bending and stretching. This makes it difficult for them to reach their entire bodies. In addition, their fur is often oily. Brushing Fluffy gently will help her stay comfortable.

Offer Seasonal Treats

Did you realize that many fall favorites are good for pets? Pureed pumpkin, for example, is loaded with nutrients. It also helps to reduce diarrhea and constipation. Many pets would benefit from having some added to their food. Apples are also harmless, however pets may have difficulty chewing them. Sweet potatoes are another nice choice. You can alternatively serve prepared chicken or turkey meat, as well as a sodium-free broth. Ask your Burlington, ON veterinarian for particular guidance.

Take Great Photos

This is also a perfect time of year to take portraits. Take some cute photos of your four-legged retiree! Schedule your shots for twilight or dawn to capture the best natural light. That’s when the light has a natural, golden hue.

Book An Appointment At Our Burlington, On Pet Hospital

Do you own a senior pet? Are you looking for a top-notch veterinarian in Burlington, ON? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. As your animal clinic, we are committed to providing excellent treatment.