Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine our pets have been living longer, healthier lives. As precious as these senior years can be they bring their own set of challenges for a pet owner. More frequent veterinary visits may be required to address medical issues that can go hand in hand with aging like mobility issues, various organ dysfunction or cancer to name a few. 

As our pets age their cognitive abilities may also decline.  Without support from a veterinarian, caring for these pets can become difficult and at times frustrating for pet owners.

An aging pet could appear confused at times, staring absently into space, pacing and appearing lost. They can also act clingy or aloof. Some stay awake at night and can even start soiling inside the house or show an alteration in activity. Just like humans suffering from dementia, declining cognitive abilities in pets can cause them to feel more anxious with increasing agitation and vocalising. 

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome, known as CDS, can present in various ways and early intervention can increase chances of success and restore the human-animal bond.

A veterinarian can guide pet owners through these challenging times and maintain a good quality of life for pets and their owners by recommending various medications, supplements and pheromones. Keeping an older pet’s brain stimulated with scent games or puzzles can keep the pet engaged even if physical activity has become more difficult because of mobility issues.

It is important to keep an aging pet’s environment as stress-free as possible to reduce anxiety while sticking to a daily routine. Consistent and gentle exercise should be tailored to the pet’s physical ability. 

Ultimately and most importantly we must remember that instead of being a burden it is a privilege and a gift to care for our “greying muzzle” pets. They have brought us so much love and joy through out their lives and they deserve all the love and care we can provide to them in their twilight years.

Pets After Dark can offer yet another layer to your pet’s comfort when your veterinarian has gone home for the day.