My dog is a 12-13 year old 60 lb mutt (husky mix). Overall his health is good and he can still walk up to about 3.5 – 4 miles but not every day and he's quite stiff after a walk that long. Some days he only wants to go a mile or two. He's got slight back end weakness that he gets acupuncture every 6-8 weeks which helps. I just want to be prepared and be able to best support him at this stage of life where he will have less mobility over time.
I now pick him up to put him on/off the bed and in/out of the car. He has a low ottoman to assist getting on/off the couch.
We live at the beach and it's very wide. I feel like it's hard for him to walk so far in the sand to get to the water, so I'm going to get a beach wagon to cart him to save his energy. Eventually when he can't do longer walks anymore, I'll plan to get a bike trailer to get him outside. Thinking of getting him a raised bowl setup so he's not bending down to the ground to eat. Also planning to get an emergency harness in case we are on a trail and he is injured or can't get back (really should have had this all along).
I know a lot of these things will be better to get him used to *before* he really needs it.
Just wondering what other tip and/or products you all have used to help support and increase the quality of life for your seniors. By all means, does not need to be limited to suggestions for mobility – Food, treats, behavior, comfort, convenience advice – I'll take it all! Also, any suggestions on things to do and prepare for the time when he will no longer be here. I just don't want to have any regrets!
submitted by /u/ladydubb
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