Is there anything sadder than watching closely as one of our beloved animal companions succumbs to the inevitable effects of aging? I think not. But since there is nothing we can do to stop time from rolling on (last time I checked the Time Machine was several years off), there is plenty we can do to make our companions' journey less painful and more dignified.
Make sure your pets see a vet regularly, including a senior blood panel, upon having reached the age of seven. A change in diet or dietary supplements may be necessary.
Think of what you can do to make your beloved companion more comfortable … Perhaps more bedding, or stairs to better access the beds and furniture. Is a ramp for the car necessary? Would your dog be more comfortable in a padded harness, rather than a collar?
Pets can experience mental decline as they age, and this mental decline is not considered a normal part of aging (cognitive dysfunction syndrome, or CDS). Special diets and supplements can help stave off dementia. Play mental games with your pet to keep the mind sharp (environmental enrichment).
Of course all of these things will cost money, and money is not easy for a lot of people to come by nowadays. But every effort should be made. The Senior Dogs Project contains a lot of useful information.
And most important of all, keep your companion animal at home with you and love them to the very end. Do not dump them in a shelter to die on a cold slab of concrete, staring out with vacant eyes, hoping to the very end that you will come back for them.
And if you can adopt a senior pet from your local shelter, do so! There are many seniors in need.
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