The leaves have changed and the air is much cooler now. When fall slowly sneaks away and winter approaches, so do our arthritic aches and pains. Not only for us as humans, but for our more seasoned furry family members as well. Taking some proactive steps can help ensure our senior companions are active, comfortable, and safe all season long.
Creaks and Rusty Joints
Cold, damp, or snowy weather tends to aggravate arthritis and heighten joint stiffness. Maintaining senior pets wellness checks is important in general, but having them on an autumn schedule for visits can be ideal. Usually with more aged pets the aches really set in when the weather changes and temperatures drop. Being seen at the beginning of the season will allow your veterinarian to observe the aches in real time before the freezing air arrives. That way they can adjust joint supplements and dietary adjustments that are specifically tailored to exactly what your pet needs. Help set them up for a toasty season they’ll enjoy alongside you instead of them dreading the winter months.
Crisp-Air and Toasty Layers
It’s common for us to snag our favorite cozy sweater from the closet before we head outside into the brisk winter air. Make sure you grab your lovable companions as well. An extra layer can help keep them toasty on your walks and during outdoor activities together. Whether it is a cute sweater or toastier jacket, especially for those pets with a thinner winter coat. Slip on those soft pet booties to help protect their sensitive paws from the snow, while giving them extra grip to walk on icy surfaces. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the cute photos taken with their furry friends all bundled up beside us in their winter attire.
Shorter Strolls and Cozy Nooks
With senior pets we notice that their arthritis often is a factor as they struggle to get up and down, especially in the fall and winter months. Finding them an orthopedic type of bed with a little extra cushion and height, can help lessen the struggle of laying and standing when their joints hurt. Adding a pet safe heating pad could be a game changer when they feel frozen to the bone. Taking shorter, low impact strolls in the cooler months can help maintain muscle tone without over exerting their already tired body. For those loveable felines that stay indoors all season long-moving their tree towards the window with more light and adding some warm materials to their beds so they can curl up in will be appreciated no doubt. While giving them some fun winter themed toys in their favorite space to keep them active as well.
There is no exact science to make our seasoned pets as spry as they once were, but with your abundance of love and being proactive, you can ease them into the chilly season. As the leaves have fallen and the air becomes sharp-slow down the pace, wrap them in extra warmth, and provide them the cozy landing space that they deserve. Pour yourself a warm drink, allow them to snuggle up in their toasty safe haven, and savor the quiet cozy magic of the season as it comes side-by-side.
Looking for more ways to care for your pets? Make sure to check out the Military Pet Club!
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