Should You Adopt An Elderly Pet?

 

Elderly pet dogs need minimal supervision and time investment.  Everybody likes puppies, but not all are willing or equipped to handle four-legged bundles of energy and are not able to get through the evening without needing bathroom breaks.  Puppy owners also have to be extra-vigilant while the pet is teething and being housebreaking, not to mention be patient while training the pup.  Elderly dogs are companions right away.  They are ready to cuddle up, go on long walks, or become exercise partners as soon as you adopt one. 

Elderly dogs are quite appreciative 

Most people who adopt pets have strong beliefs that adopted elderly dogs have an idea of how lucky they are.  They seem very thankful for being given another chance at life and the happiness that a new family has offered them.  Their point of view is that life is great, they appreciate the affection, the treats, and the attention. 

Elderly dogs can be adorable too 

Dogs seem to keep their adorableness, their age notwithstanding.  Also, being good-natured becomes more important than just looking pretty.  Elderly dogs seem quite eager to forge bonds and settle down into their new and loving homes.

Take your senior pet to your animal hospital Flat Rock, NC for regular health and dental checks. 

How To Play With A Senior Dog

 

As your canine companion ages, he will get less playful than he used to be. He may also get tired after just a few minutes of playtime. However, Fido will always be a puppy at heart. Playing will still be beneficial to him: it keeps him active and entertained, prevents boredom, and gets that tail wagging.

Here are a few tips on playing with an older pooch:

Choose Soft Surfaces: Play on a yard or carpeted floor. That way, your four-legged friend can get traction and won’t be in danger of falling

Go For Senior-Friendly Toys: Choose things that are soft on Fido's mouth. Older dogs often prefer toys that squeak or light up, as they’re easier to track.

Offer Mental Stimulation: Things like puzzle games, Hide and Seek, and a doggy version of the Three Cups game will keep Fido amused, but won't tire him out.

For more information on caring for a senior dog, contact your veterinarian Flat Rock NC today!

Ticks Can Spread Important Disease

Disease transmission through ticks is possible however not all species have this kind of ability. Some ticks are carriers of disease that could also affect both your pet and humans. This is the reason why you should take tick infestation very seriously.

Common diseases from ticks have the following symptoms: lameness, anemia, fever, and swelling of the joints. Some species can cause a form of temporary paralysis which is known as ‘tick paralysis.’ These symptoms will often go away once you have provided your pet with the proper treatment.

Scanning your dog’s body for ticks is a good daily habit to develop especially when you live in a place where tick infestation is common. Learning how to remove the ticks safely from your dog is also important.

Talk to your veterinarian Flat Rock NC about the best way to protect your pet against fleas and other parasites.

Why floor time is important to your guinea pig

 

Your guinea pig is a wonderful creature who has a desire to enjoy her time by your side day after day. You know that floor time can help with this. Why is this the case?

 

Your little fur ball needs to be able to spend some time outside of her enclosure in order to really understand what it will take to create a comfortable relationship with you. This allows you to interact in a variety of ways and gives you a chance to better grasp your pet’s other needs that can be addressed during this activity, like to enjoy some time in a new space and to get some exercise while also taking part in some playtime. Your guinea pig will benefit from open spaces where she can roam around while also being properly supervised. Your local pet clinic Flat Rock NC can help you better understand your pet.

Helping your dog make new friends

You have a dog in your life who loves being able to spend some time by your side. How can you help her make some new friends too?

 

Your pet needs you to be there with her in order to get to know her personality and preferences. You can then bring her to places you know she will be comfortable in order to interact with others. Make sure you teach her how to behave appropriately around other people and pets while encouraging her to enjoy herself around newcomers. Be there to give her reassurance and guidance as well so everything can stay on a positive note throughout the interaction. In time, you will likely see her feeling more at ease in these situations and getting a bit more adventurous. Your local veterinarian Flat Rock NC can help you better understand your pet.