Are you considering adopting an older pet? If so, you definitely have our support. We love all animals, but we definitely have a soft spot for senior pets. Not only are dogs and cats in their golden years super sweet and lovable, they tend to have a very sweet and affectionate demeanor that is truly special. Older pets also have a hard time getting adopted, simply because so many people tend to pass them over for puppies and kittens. Of course, going to a new home is difficult for any pet. Read on as a local Galloway, OH vet offers some tips on helping your new pal get settled.
We love seeing any animal go to a loving home. However, it’s important to pick the pet that is right for your household.
There are a few things to keep in mind with senior dogs. Fido’s size is one thing. If you live on a ground-floor, you may not need to worry too much about size. However, older dogs often have trouble with stairs. If you’re on a higher floor, you may want to pick a pooch you would be able to carry.
Size isn’t so much of an issue with cats, of course. However, you would want to consider your household, as well as other pets. Toddlers can make great buddies for older dogs and cats, but they can also be unintentionally rough and clumsy, and could possibly cause an injury.
You’ll want to have everything your new furry pal needs ready and waiting. For both dogs and cats, the shopping list should include toys, treats, dishes, bedding, and grooming supplies. A crate or carrier is also a must. Kitties need a litterbox and litter, and a scratching post or board. Cats also appreciate and benefit from cat furniture. You’d want to choose things that are low to the ground, as these will be easier for your pet to get off and on.
We always recommend petproofing carefully, especially when you are about to bring a new pet into your home. This is still important with older animals. While generally senior pets have outgrown much of their mischievous habits, such as digging and chewing, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Even older pets have their moments of silliness!
Here are some things you’d want to address:
Small/Sharp items, such as beads, buttons, coins, jewelry, craft kit pieces, miniatures.
Ropes and cords: These things can cause very dangerous—and possibly fatal—internal injuries if swallowed.
Plastic Bags and Ties: plastic is definitely not safe for your furry friend to ingest. The bags can also be a choking, strangulation, or asphyxiation danger. Unfortunately, many pets seem to like the taste.
Toxic Plants: many popular plants are poisonous to our furry friends. Some of the more dangerous ones include lilies, Sago palms, azaleas, and rhododendrons. The ASPCA has a more thorough list, which is available here.
Chemicals and Medication: As a rule of thumb, anything that is dangerous for kids will be dangerous for pets. That includes pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, automotive products, paint, and turpentine. Medicines, both prescription and OTC, are also unsafe.
We would also recommend that you seal off any openings behind and beneath furniture and cabinets.
You may want to take a few additional steps with older pets. For instance, if you have floors, set out area rugs and runners to provide more traction. It’s also a good idea to put out some nightlights to help your furry pal get around at night. You may want to put baby gates before stairways to prevent falls. If you have a pool or fireplace, take precautions with that as well.
If your pet has vision or hearing issues, you’ll want to do some more specific things. A running water fountain is a good option for a pet that can’t see well, as they will be able to find it by the sound. Scent markers, such as safe plants or even stick-ups, can serve as landmarks.
Pet ramps or stairs are also a good precaution.
Ask your Galloway, OH vet for specific advice.
It’s going to take your new furry friend some time to get used to their new home. You may have heard of the 3/3/3 rule. It takes pets, on average, three days to get a feel for a place, three weeks to settle in, and three months to really feel like they’re home. That’s an average, of course: every pet is a bit different.
One of the worst things you can do is force attention on a pet. You may think your new furry buddy is absolutely adorable, but if you are overbearing, you may just frighten them. Always let pets come to you for attention. You can win Fluffy and Fido’s heart, talk to them, play with them, and offer toys and treats.
Pets always feel most comfortable when they are kept on a pretty set schedule for walks and meals. This is something you can establish on Day one. That steady routine helps pets feel safe and secure, which can go a long way towards getting them settled in.
Many people choose to rename pets they’ve adopted. There are all sorts of fun options for choosing a name. You can look at baby name websites, or go with movie characters, colors, or
anything that pops into your head. Once you’ve picked the moniker, start getting your pet used to it. Only use their name in a positive way, such as when you are offering toys or treats, or even just petting them. If you have to verbally reprimand your pet for something, don’t use their name when you do that: it could cause negative connotations.
Take Your Pet To The Animal Clinic
One of the first things you’ll want to do is make an appointment at your pet hospital. One good thing about adopting an older pet is the fact that senior pets are typically already fixed. Fido and Fluffy should also be current on their exams, vaccines, and parasite control.
This is a perfect time to get some specific advice on your pet’s diet and care needs. It’s not uncommon for older pets to need specialized diets to help manage medical issues. We also would recommend getting your pet microchipped.
Older animals tend to be very easy keepers, in part because they are quite sleepy. Set out various options for cozy napping spots. Store bought beds are fine, but you can also make your own. You may want to get beds with waterproof covers, just in case of an accident.
Adopting an older pet is a wonderful act of kindness, and one that can be extreme;y rewarding. You may not have as much time as you would with a puppy or kitten, but it can still be extremely rewarding and fulfilling.
Does your senior pet need to come in for an exam? Please feel free to contact us for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. As your Galloway, OH pet clinic, we’re here to help!
