A pet is happiest in a forever home, and what better way to grow older than among loving companions. November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and National Senior Pet Month. If you have given thought to adopting a dog or cat this fall, consider bringing home an older pet who has waited long enough to leave a shelter.

As you survey local shelters for potential adoption, you will find many advantages to choosing a senior-aged pet:

• Adults dogs and cats have grown to their full size, so you need not worry about growth spurts

• Older pets are more likely to have been housebroken, so you can bypass training

• It’s easier to get a sense of an older pet’s personality as opposed to a puppy who is still learning

• Best of all, when you adopt a senior pet you are giving them a second chance!

Whether you plan to adopt or already have a pet entering their senior phase–typically when they reach ten years of age–it’s important to be prepared for these golden years. At Care-A-Lot Pet Supply, you will find everything you need for your pet’s health, vitality, and happiness.

Nutritional Health

Senior dogs and cats require a special diet in order to maintain optimal health. Older pets don’t require as many calories as an energetic puppy or young animal, and less calorie-dense foods also help prevent obesity. High fiber foods help with digestion, and high protein/lower fat diets help build muscle for continued activity. Hydration, too, is very important as pets age. Make sure clean water is available and easily accessible for your pets.

Feed your senior pets the best. Older dogs enjoy Fromm Reduced Activity, Open Farm Senior, and Victor Senior varieties. For senior cats, try Acana and Nulo brands, and Tiki Cat Senior Mousse. Keep your pets healthy and hydrated with a Catit or Petsafe pet fountain, which keeps water fresh throughout the day.

That Extra Boost

Contrary to the old saying, you can teach an older dog, or cat, new tricks. Nutritional and cognitive boosts are helpful to older pets because they sharpen their minds and bodies. What your pet’s food doesn’t completely offer your dog or cat, supplements can provide needed vitamins and minerals for continued health. If your pet’s feeding bowl provides little enrichment, switch up their routine with a licking mat to give texture and challenge to dinnertime.

Messy Mutts feeding mats are great for increasing your older pet’s brain activity. Enhance your senior pet’s nutrition with NaturVet Senior Advanced Soft Chews or Missing Link Senior (for dogs) or NaturVet VitaPet Senior or PetAg Nutri Mixer Digestive and Immunity food topper (for cats).

Comfort and Care

We feel it ourselves sometimes, the occasional aches and pains that require aids for mobility and relaxation. Senior pets also deal with joint pain and stiffness from time to time, which is why it’s important to look after their physical comfort as much as their nutritional intake. Pet ramps help older dogs move onto higher places when needed, and enhancements to their sleep spots ensure their nightly comfort and relief from leg and back aches. Just because a pet is older, too, doesn’t mean they’ve outgrown their toys. Keep their favorites at hand for when they require stimulation or play time.

When your pet needs some extra climbing help, set up the PawRamp at their favorite high spots. For heated sleep support, the Self Warming Pad and Pet Bed Heater/Warmer provide comfort for pets dealing with aches. The Carpenter Pillow Top also provided added softness. Finally, keep your older pets content with their very own plush from the KONG Comfort Kiddos or KONG Cozies selections.

Accidents Happen

As you watch over your older pets, keep in mind that accidents can occur. If incontinence becomes a regular problem, however, make an appointment with your veterinarian to determine if there are other medical issues to address. 

Care-A-Lot Pet Supply offers a wide range of cleanup products for the occasional accident. Natures Miracle Just for Cat S&O Foam and Skout’s Honor S&O help eliminate pet odors and sanitize wet spots.

Senior pets deserve loving homes and caregivers willing to make their later years the best of their lives. Care-A-Lot Pet Supply is here to help you with your pets through every stage of life. Visit any of our locations in Moyock and Hampton Roads today, and see if you qualify for our local delivery service.

Photo by Kanashi