Celebrating Kids and Senior Pets

1. Let your child be the vet's "assistant."

The older your dog gets, the more important its checkups are. Scheduling regular visits twice a year with your veterinarian is crucial to the well-being of your dog. You should also pay attention to your dog's behavior on a daily basis. Have your children keep a notebook of any irregularities they notice. They can bring it along to your dog's next visit. This will make them feel like they're doing their part to keep your dog healthy.

2. Make it toothbrush time for everyone. 

Maintaining your senior dog's smile is one of the most important things you can do to take care of your its overall health. Just like humans, senior dog's teeth should be brushed on a regular basis to help stave off tooth decay and prevent gum disease. After your children brush their teeth at night, have them watch you brush your dog's chops too. If they're old enough, let them help. If you have more than one child, have them take turns. This will teach them responsibility and the power of a sterling smile. 

3. Search for lumps and bumps together.

Irregular masses are more common and troublesome in your mature dog. Have your kids assist you with regular checks for any lumps and bumps on your dog's body. Teach them to run their fingers through your dog's coat, starting with their head and going down their back, sides, legs, chest and belly. Your dog will see it as a body rub and your child will think of it as a scavenger hunt.

4. Take a walk.

Although your dog may not be as active as it used tobe , regular but light exercise is still critical for its welfare. Have your kids take turns walking the dog on a leash outside. Schedule afternoon walks after school or before dinner. This will not only add some extra movement to your children's day, but also teach them how to keep a consistent schedule.

5. Play hide-and-seek.

Keeping your dog's brain stimulated is super important as it grows older. It keeps its mind sharp and active. What better way for your kid and dog to get along than a game of hide-and-seek? Your child can do the hiding and your dog will do the finding. Fun for everyone!

6. Go for a swim.

The next time you take the kids to the pool, don't leave Fido at home. Swimming is the perfect activity for your senior pet. The low-impact exercise will help retain muscle tone and keep sensory awareness. And what kid doesn't love splashing around with the dog?

7. Nap together.

If your child is still young enough to have nap time as part of his or her daily routine, consider your senior dog the ideal snuggle buddy. Older dogs requires more sleep than active adult dogs, so be mindful of their needs. If your kid tends to be too active for your senior dog during the day, this down time could be the perfect opportunity for them to bond.

8. Fix dinner for the dog.

Senior dogs won't be eating as much as they used to since their activity is limited, therefore vets suggest they only consume a small amount of food two times per day. If your child is up for the challenge, have them measure out the dog's food when they get home from school. It's also important not to feed your dog too late in the day so they can digest their food before they go to sleep.

9. Groom the pooch.

Grooming is always an essential part of your pet's health, but most especially during the later years of its life. Your dog can no longer clean itself as often as it used to, so taking an active role in keeping your pooch clean is necessary. Have your children help by brushing your dog's coat and giving it a gentle bath. We're certain they'll find this chore more exciting than washing the dishes or taking out the trash.

10. Make keeping your dog happy and healthy a top priority.

Having a dog in the family will undoubtedly teach your children love and tenderness. Your senior dog will want just as much attention and affection as it did when it was a puppy. It's important to teach your children to be extra sensitive and caring to your dog's every need. Kids can learn so many lessons from having a childhood pet, including empathy and respect. They'll learn that making themselves happy isn't the only concern in the world, but that making other happy is just as important.