As most pet owners will agree, an older dog requires a little more special care and may react differently to certain situations. Dogs with arthritis may require more frequent walks for a shorter distance to relieve stiff joints and sore muscles. Changes in hearing and sight may make them more nervous around other dogs and sensitive to the loud noises of surrounding traffic and the voices of strangers. When boarding your older pet, read these tips from the Veterinarian Clinic Roswell and ensure that certain options are available for a more comfortable stay.
Living Accommodations for Your Dog
Before boarding your pet, ask for a tour of the facilities where your pet is going to stay. Ensure the pet area is clean, free from odor and is arranged in a neat and organized fashion. Older pets with impaired eyesight may have difficulty adjusting safely to obstacles and uneven spaces. In addition, dogs with arthritis will need more space to move around if they require more time to rise to a standing position.
Walking: How Often and How Far?
Some boarding facilities take pets for short walks for two or three times daily. Others may offer an additional area for pets to roam around for a while and mix with other dogs. If your pet suffers from joint pain, they may need more frequent walks for shorter durations. Also, older dogs may not appreciate sharing a play area with a large group of other dogs. With sight and hearing impairment, the company of a few playmates at a time would probably suit an older pet better. Click here for more information.