How to Adapt Your Home Care for Your Elderly Pet

One of the most frequently asked questions I receive as a veterinary physiotherapist is, “How can I help my elderly pet?” As our pets grow older, their needs change just like ours do. They may slow down, struggle with mobility, or develop age-related conditions such as arthritis. While regular veterinary care is essential, there’s a lot you can do at home to help them stay comfortable and happy in their senior years.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

One of the biggest challenges for aging pets is mobility. Stiffness, joint pain, and reduced strength can make everyday activities—like jumping onto the couch or climbing stairs—much harder than before. Simple home adjustments can make a world of difference.

Consider adding pet-friendly ramps or steps to help your dog get onto furniture or into the car without putting extra strain on their joints. Jumping up and down can increase wear and tear on aging bodies, so reducing these movements will help prevent discomfort and injury. If your pet struggles with stairs, baby gates can be a great way to limit their access to areas that may be difficult to navigate, especially when they are unsupervised.

Another important factor to consider is flooring. While sleek laminate or hardwood floors may look great, they can be slippery and difficult for older pets to walk on. This can lead to extra strain on their joints or even accidental slips and falls. Since replacing flooring isn’t always an affordable option, placing rugs or non-slip runners in high-traffic areas can help provide better grip and stability, making movement easier and safer for your pet.

Making Daily Activities Easier

Mealtime can also become more challenging for senior pets, especially those dealing with arthritis or joint pain. Using raised food and water bowls can help reduce strain on their neck, shoulders, and front limbs, making eating and drinking more comfortable. For pets eating on slippery floors, placing a non-slip mat under their bowls can also help them maintain stability.

When it comes to rest, a warm, quiet space with a comfortable bed is essential. Older pets often need more support while sleeping, so investing in an orthopaedic bed can help relieve pressure on their joints and ensure they get the rest they need.

Supporting Their Health and Mobility

Beyond home adjustments, regular veterinary checkups are key to keeping your pet feeling their best. Aging pets can develop conditions that may not be obvious at first, so frequent checkups allow for early detection and management of any health concerns.

Adding joint supplements to their diet can also help maintain mobility. These can be introduced as a preventative measure before signs of stiffness appear or used later to help manage existing discomfort. It’s also exceptionally important to ensure that your pet’s walking routine is appropriate for their age and condition. Consulting your veterinarian or physiotherapist will help determine the best walking schedule. Elderly dogs often benefit from shorter, more frequent walks rather than longer, more strenuous ones.

Physiotherapy is another excellent way to support aging pets. Massage therapy, electrotherapy, and prescribed exercises can all help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Your physiotherapist can also prescribe home exercises to be completed between sessions to keep your pet active and comfortable.

Helping Your Pet Age Gracefully

Aging is a natural part of life, and while it comes with its challenges, there’s so much we can do to make the process easier for our beloved pets. With a few simple adjustments at home and the right supportive care, you can help your aging pets stay happy, healthy, and comfortable in their golden years.

By being proactive and making small changes now, you’ll be giving your pet the best possible quality of life. If you would like any further advice, please contact me (Ashleigh) directly at 07850227326 or ash@leadandreinvetphysio.co.uk.