Senior pets are not unlike senior citizens. They need frequent checkups, typically receive multiple medications, and have “senior moments.” Like people, pets tend to lose muscle and balance with age. This age-related muscle and proprioceptive loss can lead to inactivity and weight gain, increased stress on joints
from diminished stability of surrounding musculature, and injuries from tripping and falling.
Senior pets can benefit from massage to relieve aches, shorter and more frequent walks for cardiovascular health, and strengthening, stretching, and balance/proprioception exercises to encourage strength and stability.
Three types of exercises may benefit older pets:
- Passive range-of-motion (PROM) exercises
- General exercises for maintaining balance and proprioception
- Targeted exercises aimed at strengthening gluteal and hamstring muscles (the muscles needed to maintain standing)
Dr Ilana will address easy ways to help keep your senior dog moving!
Check out this video demo from KPIX of Dr. Ilana at Muttville:
