Senior Pet Care

Helping Your Senior Dog Thrive in Their Golden Years

As dogs age, they may need extra care to stay comfortable and happy. Every pet is unique, and as their owner, you know them best. At Corfu Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to work with you to keep your senior pup feeling their best. Here are some helpful tips and products to support your aging dog’s mobility, hygiene, and cognitive health.

Keeping Your Senior Dog Mobile & Comfortable

Mobility issues are common in older dogs, and because pets often hide pain, it’s important to watch for signs such as:

• Limping or stiffness (especially after resting)
• Struggling to get up or down, favoring their front legs
• Avoiding stairs, jumping, or previously enjoyed activities
• Slipping, falling, or walking unsteadily

Pain Relief & Joint Support

Managing pain is key to keeping your senior dog active. Talk to your vet about pain medications and high-quality joint supplements like Cosequin, Dasuquin, Movoflex, or Flexadin. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as Grizzly’s Salmon Oil, also help reduce inflammation while improving skin and coat health.

Improving Traction & Stability

Slippery floors can make walking difficult. Try using:

• Rugs & yoga mats for better grip
• Paw Friction or Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips for improved traction
• Booties or Walkee Paws (though some dogs need time to adjust)
• Keeping nails trimmed and maintaining a healthy weight can also make a big difference.

Comfortable Mealtimes

Dogs who struggle to stand may benefit from raised food & water dishes to reduce strain.

Hygiene & Incontinence Solutions

Senior dogs may experience urinary incontinence, often leaving wet spots on bedding. Some ways to manage this include:

• Medications like Proin or Incurin (ask your vet)
• Waterproof bedding or pee pads to protect furniture
• Dog diapers (changed frequently to prevent skin irritations.

To keep your pup clean between baths, use waterless shampoo or pet wipes. And remember, accidents aren’t their fault—be patient with them!

Supporting Cognitive Health in Senior Dogs

Aging dogs may develop Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), similar to dementia. Signs include:

• Confusion, pacing, or getting “stuck” in places
• Changes in interaction—becoming clingy, distant, or even fearful
• Increased vocalization, especially at night
• Forgetting housetraining or having accidents indoors

Helping Senior Dogs Stay Sharp

• Purina Bright Minds food supports brain function
• Puzzle toys & snuffle mats keep their minds engaged
• Consistent routines & gentle interactions help them feel secure

For dogs experiencing anxiety due to cognitive decline or sensory loss, try:

• Thunder Shirts for situational stress
• Adaptil calming pheromones
• Calming supplements like Zylkene, Solluquin, or Anxitane
• Prescription anxiety meds if needed—talk to your vet

We’re Here for Your Senior Pup!

Aging is inevitable, but with the right care, your dog can enjoy their golden years to the fullest. If you have questions or need recommendations, we’re happy to help!