Senior
Make later life easier to live
Ageing is individual. New slowing down, weight change or toileting difficulties deserve attention rather than being dismissed as inevitable old age.
In this guide / 3 chapters
Adapt the home and routine
Provide a supportive, quiet bed away from draughts and protect rest from children, visitors and other pets. Offer more frequent toilet access and consider how easily your dog reaches their usual area. Make predictable, gentle approaches if hearing or sight is changing. Keep enjoyable activity within their ability and discuss changes with the vet. Regular examinations can identify treatable problems and help adjust care before a difficulty becomes a crisis.
Measure comfort, not just birthdays
Track willingness to move, interest in meals and family life, sleep and ability to settle. Report weight loss, reduced enthusiasm or a change in behaviour. Ask what treatment should improve, when to review it and what deterioration should trigger a call. These conversations help preserve the activities your dog enjoys rather than treating every older dog the same way.