Happy New Year to you and your families. As I plan for 2016, I think about how my world view has changed as I grow older. I think our dogs’ view of their world also changes as they mature. I certainly know in practice that my “senior” patients perceive their experiences differently to their younger counterparts and as a result need extra care and time.

Here are three tips I apply when treating my senior patients. They may also work for you when managing your senior pet.

1. Time

I always schedule extra time for appointments with senior dogs, especially on the first treatment. They often need extra time to adjust to the environment and more frequent breaks throughout – rushing them or getting cranky with them will likely add to their anxiety about a new place or the treatment.

2. Manage the environment

Ensure the environment won’t cause undue stress – think about

• flooring – take some non-slip mats, if necessary,
• smells – as much as possible control smells from other animals,
• noise – sometimes ambient noise like a talkback radio show can reduce stress,
• time of day – pick times when there is likely to be fewer people and dogs for your senior to deal with or find a quiet spot to sit and wait. Also consider the time of day you dog is most bright and agile. Some dogs are morning dogs and some are not.

A good tip is to bring or do something familiar and comfortable for your dog – if your dog is trained to rest on a mat, then take their mat with you or play a familiar game while you wait or in breaks in the consult.

3. Listen & observe

Listen to what the dog is telling you during a treatment / examination. Younger, more mobile dogs can get up and move away when the intervention is too confronting for them. Senior dogs are less agile and more likely to snap because they can’t move away. This is upsetting for the dog and the humans involved but completely preventable with careful observation.

As we start a new year, consider your older dog’s special needs and be kind and patient with them. They are after all your best friend.

Thank you for reading my blog, I would love to hear about how you keep your senior dogs healthy and mobile, so please leave a comment or send me an email .

Enjoy your dogs