The Detroit Barker

With my dog, Libby, about to turn 14 (a feat for a large breed), and my cat, Chell, nearing her geriatric stage of life next year at age 12, it can be hard when starting to notice the signs of advanced aging. Luckily, there are still many moments to enjoy together as our pets reach their golden years. Here’s what I’ve done to help mine.

Keep Up With Veterinary Care

My vet knows Libby on a first-name basis, as we visit the veterinary clinic monthly for her Librela shot to help with joint pain and arthritis. On top of that, she gets a monthly weigh-in and twice-yearly bloodwork and exams. Libby’s definitely struggled with a lot of health issues this past year, namely her advancing arthritis as well as a long bout with pancreatitis this past May that landed her in the ER for a few days.

But, routine veterinary care is one of the most important steps you can take for extending your pet’s quality of life. I give Libby a variety of daily supplements such as a fish-oil/omega-3 supplement, a glucosamine/chondroitin one, and make sure her food is formulated for her senior years and sensitive stomach. The Librela, a once-monthly shot, has also taken Libby from being barely able to get up and move to enjoying her walks and wanting to play again!

Meet Your Pet Halfway

Your dog may not be able to go on a 2-mile hike anymore, and your cat may struggle to chase that feather toy. I’ve done a lot to meet my pets halfway, adjusting my schedule and how I interact with them to better fit their changing needs. Instead of a long walk, I go on several shorter outings with Libby — both to help with urinary incontinence, and get her outside to sniff, stretch her legs, and explore without overtaxing her. For Chell, I’ve changed play sessions to be shorter, with fewer leaps and bounds, and more cuddle sessions in between.

Celebrate the Good Days

There are a lot of “bad” days where I wonder if Libby is feeling pain, or if I’m going to need to start thinking about the end. And there are days where she acts like a puppy and wants to play and explore and sample all of my snacks. I take each small win as it comes. If she’s still greeting me every morning with a wagging tail, then I’m still taking the time to make sure she’s happy and healthy. And, in the times she brings me a toy ready to play, you bet I stop what I’m doing and enjoy the moment!

Have a Plan

No one wants to think about their pet passing. Thinking about Libby or Chell not being here anymore makes my heart break. I’ve spent many nights — especially those ones where she was in the ER — crying and wondering if this is the end. It’s important to have a plan, however. Where will you take them for their final days? A favorite final snack? Discuss things with your veterinarian, and decide if cremation, burial, or a pet memorial is the best option. By planning out the end, you can ensure you’ll have something to remember your pet by afterward.

It’s hard, on the rough days when Libby struggles to eat or sleeps more. But, I try to take each day and each moment as it comes. We’re still making a lot of happy memories together in our golden years, even if we’re going a little slower.

Do you have a senior pet? What activities do you enjoy doing with them? What changes have you made to accommodate them? Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear your stories!