Keeping pets safe at home or while traveling can be challenging especially as pets age. A large dog is considered a senior dog at age 5-6 years of age, and smaller dogs and cats are considered seniors at age 7. As pets age, they can develop arthritis or joint injuries that make once ordinary tasks difficult and painful for elderly pets. Other pets can develop cognitive dysfunction or dementia, making it difficult for them to do things they once could. Senior pets often need more safety precautions in place to ensure they do not injure themselves or worse.
For example, a dog or cat that could once jump on the bed, for instance, may require assistance to get up on higher surfaces. Pet stairs are one solution that can not only keep pets safe at home, but can help keep pet parents safe as well – avoiding unnecessary injuries lifting pets. There are a variety of pet products designed to help elderly pets who may have difficulties walking, jumping or performing everyday tasks that they could when they were younger.
If you have an older pet that is having difficulties with jumping, walking or no notice that your senior pet is having difficulty with everyday activities that they could do at one time, it is important to consult your vet to rule out any serious issues. If the vet determines that it is a manageable condition that may need an assistive device to help your pet get through the day more easily, then there are a number of products that can be used to assist your pet.
We do not endorse or promote any of these products or companies. Products are listed for demonstration purposes only based on available information at the time of publication. You should always consult your vet to determine what is most appropriate for your pet.
A pet gate can help keep your pet confined to a restricted area of your home, especially during the day when you may be out of the home at work or running errands. A pet gate can keep your pet safe and secure in a specific area of your home.
A pet ramp is a convenient way for pets to get onto furniture or beds. If your furry friend is accustomed to sleeping on the bed, but they are in need of assistance, a pet ramp can help them get situated without jumping and risking injury.
Some pets have difficulty as they age with bending over to reach their meal. Meal time can be very frustrating for an older pet who is in pain when hunched over too far. An elevated pet feeding dish can help alleviate some of that discomfort.
Similar to ramps, pet stairs can help an older pet climb onto furniture or bedding. If your older pet is having difficulty getting onto their comfortable piece of furniture, pet stairs may be a solution to aid them in their quest.
A pet lift can save your back if you are dealing with a pet that has difficulty standing or getting into the car or on the couch. There are many types of lifts including full body lifts, sling lifts or lifts that lift only the front or rear legs.
As pets age, they may have difficulty keeping up on long walks. A pet carrier can help your pet enjoy the outdoors and the journey, without exhausting himself physically. Pet carriers are typically used for smaller pets.
A cat or dog who typically enjoys the outdoors, may become adverse to outdoor temperature fluctuations as they get older. A pet door can allow you pet the freedom to come indoors when they need to.
Older pets may develop cognitive dysfunction which can cause impaired thinking. Senior pets may have difficulty staying in their yard without some sort of confinement. Pet fences help keep pets contained to a confined area.
A wireless fence is similar to a physical fence in that it can help keep your pet from wandering off, especially if they develop dementia or other cognitive illnesses. They work by providing a shock around the perimeter of the yard.
A tracker, would enable you to locate your pet anytime, anywhere. Using the app on your smartphone, you can see the exact location of your dog or cat. A tracker will allow you to track your pet wherever they are, and especially if they wander off.
A pet camera can allow you to keep an eye on your furry friend when you cannot be home. Some offer treat dispensers or can allow two way communication so you can talk to your pet from outside your home.
Similar to a carrier, a stroller can allow your pet to tag along outside without exhausting your senior pet. Strollers can be used for larger pets or multiple pets.
A pet booster seat can help keep your pet secured while driving in a vehicle. It restrains your pet and keep your pet from disturbing you while driving. Many have a tether or harness to prevent your pet from jumping out.
A seat belt can restrain your dog from distracting you while driving. The seat belt buckles into a regular seat belt clip and attaches the other end to your dog’s harness.
Pet ID tags are very important for senior pets who may wander off and get lost. It is more common for senior pets to wander off than younger pets, so an ID tag can provide important details if your cat or dog is lost, and found by someone who needs to contact you.
Lyme disease and other tick born illnesses can be deadly to senior pets. Flea and tick prevention should be applied to any pet that goes outdoors, even in winter months.
With your help, we can keep senior pets out of shelters and place them in loving, caring homes. Your gift can help save senior pets from an uncertain future.
You must be logged in to post a comment.