Pet Care Solutions

Older Dogs

As they get older, your dog will some need some extra care. A good place to sleep is one of the most important things you can provide for your aging pooch. A comfortable dog bed not only relieves aching joints and muscles, but also provides a comfortable "home" that your dog will instantly recognize, even when their eyesight and sense of smell diminish.

Tips

• Create a comfortable resting place. Older dogs need a lot more sleep.
• Be aware that your dog's sight and hearing will diminish. They might not be disobedient - they could simply not hear or see you well.
• It is tempting, but do not overfeed your aging dog. Overweight is a serious burden for aging joints.
• Senior dogs can have difficulty regulating body temperature. A nice snuggly blanket is a good solution!

Older Cats

Even in their prime, cats will sleep a lot. Almost half of all cats sleep more than 18 hours a day, and this number goes up with age. No wonder cats are so picky about their preferred sleeping place!

• Rewarding your older cat with its own bespoke sleeping place is a good start.
• Less agile cats like their beds in a slightly elevated position or - the opposite - hidden under a shelf or bookcase.
• Do not wash your cat's bed too often with strongly scented detergents - Cats love their own smell.
• Older cats can have "accidents" like throwing up or drooling. Make sure the bed is easy to wipe off.

Sick and Convalescing Animals

Ailing dogs and cats rarely complain, so you will need to keep an extra eye out for their well-being. A safe and comfortable spot to sleep, rest and recover is the most important thing.

• Choose a bed that is off the ground to avoid drafts and rising cold from the floor.
• Give your pet plenty of space - especially when they are wearing a cone, splint or prosthesis.
• Sick animals can sometimes lose control of their bodily functions. Choose a bed cover that is easy to clean.
• Avoid perfumed or strong detergents. Sick animals may be too weak to move away from areas that don't smell good to them.

Fun and Games

Pets are playful by nature - even when they get older. They might not be as active, but they still enjoy their leisure time!

• Providing a dedicated playtoy is a great way to engage your animal's natural curiosity
• Mix it up! Aninmals can get bored with a toy after a while, but you can "rotate" toys from a secret stash you keep hidden from them.
• Joints and muscles of aging animals are especially prone to injury. Playful pets can get caught up in the moment, so be sure to monitor them carefully as they romp, run and jump.
• Always use dedicated toys for animals. Other objects may look like fun, but often contain pigments, plasticides or other toxic chemicals that can seriously harm your pet.

Basic Petsitting Kits

Is your pet going on a sleepover or extended stay away from home? These simple tips can help both your pet and your host make the best of it.

• Purchase a travel bed and let your pet sleep on it a week before the trip. It will acquire a familiar smell that will keep the homesickness at bay.
• Not all kind petsitters are pet owners themselves. Make sure you pack everything your pet needs: favorite snacks and treats, but also toys, grooming products and blankets with a familiar smell.
• Pack a worn item of clothing. Pets like to cuddle up with someything that smells like their owner.
• Nervous dogs and cats can have "accidents". Make sure you pack some cleaning pads and animal-friendly soap for the host.