21. Love Your Senior Pet the Way They Need

How do I love my senior pet the way they need? Today, Dr. Amanda talks about how caring for senior dogs and cats means adapting the way we show affection as their bodies, brains, and preferences change. She gets into: The grief and guilt that can come up when pets can no longer do the activities they once loved, and how to keep the bond in new ways Respecting their boundaries and staying connected through gentler interaction Practical ways to support senior pets, including sniff walks, stroller walks, rehab exercises, and more Enrichment tools like lick mats and snuffle mats for mental stimulation and a sense of purpose Why it's important to check for other causes of behavior changes, like pain or anxiety, before assuming it's just aging or dementia Predictable routines, especially in the evening, to help reduce stress and support pets with cognitive changes If you're a pet caregiver, listen in for some encouragement to stay present, and a reminder that loving a senior pet well may look different than it used to. LINKS Sign up for Dr. Steffen’s email list and grab the freebies here: http://www.seniorpetconnection.com/freebies Follow Senior Pet Talk and find Dr. Amanda on Instagram at @‌dramandasteffen. Website: http://seniorpetconnection.com Book your personalized virtual consultation: https://bit.ly/SPTConsult TRANSCRIPT TIME STAMPS 00:00 - Why senior pet care is emotional, not just tactical 04:28 - Her personal experience with her heart dog, Floyd 09:49 - Gentle ways to bond with a senior pet 17:57 - Massages can be quality time together 21:40 - Brain games for senior pets 28:30 - Why predictable bedtime routines can help 35:29 - Loving a senior pet well doesn't mean loving them the same way you always have 40:53 - Cherishing the moment and staying present Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.