We all want to make sure our senior dogs are healthy, and comfortable in their later years, and with many products that are out on the market today we can make their lives even more comfortable. Having said that, some products can even help prolong their life, especially if they suffer with certain conditions like joint problems. Therefore, in this article we will take a closer look at some of the products that will make a senior dog’s life more comfortable, as well as help them to improve his quality of life, so read on to learn more.
Boots Or Booties
Boots, or booties as they are often referred to, are not just for looks or people that pamper their pets, they actually serve a purpose that your dog will be grateful for. Boots will stop them from slipping on icy surfaces in the winter, and also protect their paws from the toxic additives when salt is laid on the road or pavement. Also in winter, many dogs that walk on icy, or snowy surfaces suffer with sore paws that can lead to infection, so booties actually have a practical use for your senior dog as well as younger dogs too for that matter.
Orthopedic Mattress
These mattresses make a huge difference to the quality of life for your senior dog, especially larger dogs that can suffer with joint and back issues. These mattresses are not only comfortable for your senior dog, but are extremely practical with dogs that suffer with arthritis, and other aches and pain conditions. Moreover, they can be extremely affordable, and can last the whole dogs life, and even if you start a younger dog on a orthopedic mattress, it will help him later in life easily.
Steps And Ramps
You can now purchase steps, or ramps for your senior dog, which can be a great help for those senior dogs that have trouble getting to higher places due to joint issues. Many older dogs cannot get up on a sofa, or couch that they so used to love, or some that are used to sleeping on their owners bed just can’t jump up anymore due to arthritis or other conditions. However, by purchasing a ramp, or step it can make their life much easier, and get them to where they are most comfortable without too much effort, and it makes it easier on their limbs.
Life Vests
This may sound a strange idea until you actually think about it, many dogs live near water of some kind like a river, lake, pond or even the ocean, and they probably love to swim. The life vest is a precautionary garment that is very practical as your dog gets older, because his limbs aren’t as strong as they used to be, and the life vest will protect them if they get worn out or tired while swimming in the water. Swimming is great exercise for all dogs, because is uses virtually every muscle in the body, and is also therapeutic, yet it is also a good idea to ensure their safety by fitting a life vest before they go into the water.
Hind Limb Harness And Slings
The hind limb harness, or slings are both great products for senior dogs that have joint problems, arthritis, or just have problems walking, especially those that are paralyzed. Hind limb harnesses attach to the dogs rear end, and attach to a handle so that you can support their back legs, and many owners have said that without the harness their dog would not be able to get out and about. In addition, the slings are designed to fit under the abdomen to support the hips, and are made with a padded or cushioned underside for comfort.
There are many products out on the market for dogs that are just gimmicks, or do not serve a real purpose, but every so often there are products that come out, which do actually help. The products we have looked at here today provide both practical, and health benefits to make life easier for your senior dog. Moreover, some of these products can actually add years to your dog’s life, and make life much more comfortable for them, whether it be getting in, and out of a bed or couch, or having much needed relief for their arthritis.