As our 4-legged kids enter their golden years, they require special care and attention to maintain their health and quality of life. In St. Louis, pet parents can access a wealth of resources and expertise to help support senior companions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for your aging pet in the Gateway City. These tips are especially helpful for supporting senior pets during St. Louis’ chilly winter months when arthritis and other chronic pain can flair.
When is a Pet A Senior?
While we can instantly recognize a senior pet from the gray hair on its muzzle, it’s not always the best way to know when our pet qualifies as a “senior.” According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pets are considered seniors at different ages depending on their size.
Cats
CatsThe American Animal Hospital Association notes that senior status is generally applied to pets in the last 25% of their estimated life span, with most cats specifically defined as senior when they are greater than 10 years old. Some exotic breeds may have different life expectancies and, therefore, become seniors at different rates.
Dogs
– Small or toy dog breeds (less than 20 pounds): 8 to 11 years
– Medium-sized dog breeds (20 to 50 pounds): 8 to 10 years
– Large dog breeds: Typically earlier, around 7-8 years
How Many Pets in the US are Seniors?
Interestingly, the pet population is increasingly becoming older. Recent data shows that the number of households with senior pets has grown significantly in recent years.
Per this article, “In terms of the current age distribution of pets in the US, MRI-Simmons data shows a long-term increase in the share of dog-owning households with senior dogs (age 7+), rising from 42% in 2012 to 52% as of summer 2022. This means that a total of 26.5 million households own senior dogs. In contrast, the share of households with puppies under the age of 1 dropped from nearly 13% to 9% over the same period. Similarly, the number of cat-owning households in the US with senior cats rose from 46% in 2012 to 52% as of summer 2022, amounting to a total of 16.0 million households with senior cats. In contrast, the share of households with kittens under the age of 1 fell from 13% in 2012 to below 11% in 2022.”
How Do We Support Senior Pets?
Exercise for Muscle Tone and Mobility
Exercise for Muscle Tone and MobilityKeeping senior pets active is crucial for maintaining muscle tone and joint health. Dog walks are the easiest way to keep dogs moving. As they age, seniors may not need a very long walk to reap the benefits they offer. Instead, they may benefit from more frequent walks that are about 10-20 minutes in length.
At 4-Legged Kids, we offer potty breaks, standard walks, and extended walks – these different walk lengths are perfect for families looking to design a pet care plan that is ideal for their pet’s age, breed, and activity needs. Potty breaks are ideal for dogs with arthritis and chronic pain because they will not exacerbate symptoms, rather, they will help maintain muscle tone – which diminishes with age – and weight to prevent further deterioration of the joints.
Diet Formulated for Senior Pets
Proper nutrition is fundamental to senior pet health. The St. Louis Veterinary Center emphasizes the importance of understanding the aging process in pets and adjusting their care accordingly. This often includes transitioning to a diet specially formulated for older pets, which typically features adjusted protein and fat contents to meet their changing nutritional needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your senior pet’s specific health requirements.
Herbs and Supplements for Comfort
Herbs and Supplements for ComfortWhile it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen, certain herbs and supplements can help ease discomfort and reduce inflammation in senior pets. The most popular supplements for seniors are hip and joint-specific. They include glucosamine, collagen, green lipped muscle, turmeric, omega 3s, and more. Full-spectrum hemp extract (aka CBD) is also widely available and targets inflammation to ease stiffness and soreness.
Regular Veterinary Care
Biannual check-ups are crucial for senior pets. Creve Coeur Animal Hospital in St. Louis recommends diagnostic testing such as complete blood counts, urinalyses, and fecal tests to detect diseases that commonly affect older pets. These regular check-ups allow veterinarians to monitor your pet’s internal organ function and catch any potential issues early.
Enrichment Activities
Enrichment ActivitiesKeeping senior pets mentally stimulated is just as important as physical exercise. Enrichment activities for senior dogs include puzzle toys or scent games, which can provide mental stimulation without overtaxing aging bodies. At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., we let dogs sniff during dog walks as sniffing is one of the best ways to keep the brain stimulated and the dog connected to his or her environment.
For cats, enrichment and playtime go hand in hand (or is it hand in paw?) At 4-Legged Kids, our pet sitting services are a great way to offer enrichment to your cat’s life. We can come over while you’re at work and engage your cat in a rigorous wand game or chase. We can use your cat’s favorite toy to get him or her moving, using their minds and bodies in healthy ways.
Both cats and dogs benefit from trick training too!
Specialized Care
When more specialized care is in order, acupuncture and water therapy are two great ways to ease a senior pet’s pain and stiffness. Additionally, laser therapy can address a variety of conditions, including arthritis, soft tissue injuries, and post-operative pain. Check out this post by Kingsbury Animal Hospital to learn more about the benefits of laser therapy. I know a number of pet parents that have successfully address the symptoms of aging and other conditions with laser therapy.
Supporting Senior Pets in St. Louis
In conclusion, supporting senior pets in St. Louis involves a multifaceted approach that includes appropriate exercise, tailored nutrition, comfort care, regular veterinary check-ups, and mental stimulation. By leveraging the resources available in the city and working closely with veterinary and pet care professionals , pet owners can ensure your senior companions enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Remember, every senior pet is unique, so it’s important to work with your veterinarian to create a care plan that’s tailored to your pet’s individual needs. At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services are tailored to meet your and your pets’ needs. Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register. Existing clients, please request services here.
We look forward to caring for your 4-Legged Kids!
Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.
