Senior Pet Bucket List

Quality time with your pet is precious, especially in their senior years. Pets are a significant part of our world, but to them we are their world. It is tough to think how short their lives are compared to ours and that one day we will have to say goodbye to our best furry buddy. Although it is a sad thought, as a pet parent, it’s good to plan to make the end of senior pet’s life the best it can be by spending as much time with them as possible.

One way you can do that is to make a “bucket list” of things to do with them before they pass. You can start by making a list of things they love to do, such as eating, going for walks or playing fetch. Keep your senior pet’s current capabilities in mind as you plan. Is it hard for them to take long walks due to arthritis; do they have a sensitive tummy; does riding in the car or getting groomed give them anxiety? Just make sure that you plan things that they will enjoy, stress free. Here are some ideas for your bucket list.

Go for a Senior Pet Spa Day

If your old friend is up to it, consider taking him or her for a relaxing spa day. Look for a grooming service that has the ability to work with frail or debilitated pets, or who can come to your home to provide your pet with care. Not only will it rejuvenate them, but it also has great health benefits. Whether you take them regularly or occasionally, grooming helps keep their coat shiny and skin healthy.

Getting your pet a “paw-dicure” can also make walking easier and less painful. While a makeover with an updated look or just a fresh cut keeps your senior pet looking their best, it is also important to keep them clean especially in areas at risk of infection. Another spa service your old friend can enjoy is a massage. Massages can increase circulation, relieve pain and stress, strengthen immunity, and improve digestion. If you can’t make it to the spa, you can learn massage techniques and do it yourself at home.  

Have a Dinner Date

Eating out is a guilty pleasure most of us enjoy; your pet may like it as well. In many cities there are pet-friendly pubs and restaurants where you can take your fluffy buddy to dinner. Sometimes they even have a menu for them to enjoy chicken patties and burgers. There are also pet bakeries in some cities for fresh baked goodies. Remember to keep their diet in mind if they have tummy troubles. If you don’t have any of these nearby, you can find some recipes online and cook up a nice dinner and dessert at home or even go for a picnic in the park!

Plan a Trip with your Senior Pet

It’s great to get out of the house occasionally; life is short for your senior pet to be cooped up all day. Plan a trip to take your pal camping or spend the day at the beach. Let them explore nature and experience new environments. Even a nice scenic drive up the coast with the window down may be great. You can make a few stops along the way or just take a short trip. Renting a motorhome is another option if you’re not a fan of camping outside. If your pet doesn’t do well with being in a car, pitch a tent in the backyard and light a fire pit (conditions permitting). It will be a nice change of scenery and give you a chance to bond with your buddy.

Capture Precious Memories

Photos are the best way to freeze a moment in time. If you want some professional pictures, you can take a family portrait at a studio or with a photographer. Smartphone technology has made it so easy to take pictures and look back on our cherished memories. Take as many pictures of your pet as often as you can. If your pet likes to dress up, have fun with it and style them with accessories like sunglasses or scarfs. Dress them in cute cozy sweaters and scarves.

Capture memories of your days together playing. You can even make your senior pet’s own social media page and share with all your close friends and family. Or you can make a day to print photos, either online at shutterfly.com or at your local drugstore that offers printing. Then you can buy some frames to display your beloved pet or maybe an album to make a scrapbook for you to remember the great times you had.  

Spend Quality Time with your Pet at Home

The most simple thing you can do with your best furred friend is spend time together at home. Catch a few zzz’s with your pup snuggled up in a cozy blanket. You can have breakfast in bed on your day off. Make some pancakes and sausage to share while you both lay in your bed. 

On a cold day, cuddle up in front of a crackling fire; spread out a soft blanket across the floor and toss some pillows down to relax and watch the mesmerizing flames together. Read your favorite book to your buddy while they relax next to you, the sound of your voice will help comfort them. You can also make a favorite music playlist especially for your pet that you can listen to together. It will help to sooth your aging pet and you can continue listening to it long after they have passed to reminisce about them. 

You can do anything and everything your heart desires with your furry buddy by your side. The most important thing is that you spend as much time as possible with your senior pet and they are comfortable. There’s not much more that they want than to have your full attention and affection. Make their golden years the greatest for your pet, as you create a close connection and lasting memories with them.

If you're not sure your pet will be able to manage any of the listed activities and would like to discuss your options with Dr. Chandler, please contact us today.

Resources and Credits

Give Pup Dog Massage, Senior Dog Bucket List, Splash and Dash