As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry friends. This is especially true when it comes to our senior pups, who require extra care and attention to ensure their safety and comfort. Unfortunately, as our dogs get older, they become more vulnerable to hazards in and around our homes.
FAQ
Pet insurance is a health insurance policy specifically for your pet. It helps cover the cost of veterinary care, including accidents, illnesses, and preventive care, depending on the plan you choose.
Now is the best time to get pet insurance because veterinary costs are rising, and having coverage can provide financial peace of mind. Early enrollment often means better rates and coverage before any pre-existing conditions develop.
From slippery floors to sharp corners, there are many potential dangers that could harm our senior dogs. That’s why it’s essential to take the necessary steps to make our homes safer for them. Below, we’ll go over 10 practical ways to do just that. Let’s get started!
How to Make Your Home Safer for Senior Pups
These tips range from making simple modifications to your home’s layout to investing in specialized products designed for senior dogs. By implementing these ideas, you can provide your furry friend with a safer and more comfortable living space, giving you peace of mind and allowing your pup to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Enter automatic ball launchers, a revolutionary solution that keeps the fun rolling even when we’re not available to participate. These incredible devices have taken the pet market by storm, providing our canine companions with endless hours of entertainment and exercise. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect automatic ball launcher for your furry friend?
When it comes to our furry friends, few things bring them more joy than chasing a ball. The thrill of the chase, the excitement of catching the ball mid-air, and the pure delight of running back to their beloved humans—it’s a simple pleasure that never fails to ignite their spirits. However, as much as we love playing fetch with our cats, our hectic lifestyles can sometimes limit the time we have to dedicate to their favorite game.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of automatic ball launchers for cats and explore the top contenders that offer exceptional features, durability, and safety. Whether you have an energetic Siamese or a laid-back Ragdoll, I’ve done the research to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect cat fetch machine that will keep your kitten entertained and tail-wagglingly happy.
First things first, which types of automatic ball throwers for cats are available in the market today? There are many types of them:
- Fetch machines
- Blaster
- Sling
- Thrower
- Fetch machines
- Blaster
- Sling
- Thrower
Table of Contents
How to Make Your Home Safer for Senior Pups
These tips range from making simple modifications to your home’s layout to investing in specialized products designed for senior dogs. By implementing these ideas, you can provide your furry friend with a safer and more comfortable living space, giving you peace of mind and allowing your pup to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Quick disclaimer: if you decide to purchase a SpotOn virtual fence for your pup through my referral link, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Also, this is not a sponsored review. I never delete the negative comments and talk about negative things compare to many other reviews.
Due to ongoing supply issues with electronics, the SpotOn fence might not occasionally go out of stock. If you see it available and decide it’s right for you, I recommend grabbing it right away.
1. Install ramps to make stairs easier to navigate
If your home has stairs or elevated areas, consider installing ramps or gentle slopes to eliminate the need for your senior dog to climb stairs. Out of all of the things you can do to make your home safer for senior pups, this is probably both the hardest AND the most important. It’s the hardest in terms of time and money, but the most important because senior dogs often have health issues that make stairs a massive challenge.
The video below does a good job of explaining a relatively thrifty way to make a DIY dog ramp. Unfortunately, it mainly only really works for short staircases. If you have 2-story home with a full staircase, you may need to call a professional.
2. Use Non-Slip Flooring
Here’s an easy one! To prevent slips and falls, replace slippery surfaces with non-slip flooring options. This is especially important in areas where your senior dog spends a lot of time, such as hallways, kitchen, and living room.
You don’t have to install expensive carpets or anything super fancy. You can just use cheap throw rugs with non-slip backing (make it yourself by following the video below) or apply non-slip strips (like these on Amazon) to your existing flooring. They also make transparent anti-slip tape if you prefer something that isn’t visible.
3. Raised Feeding Stations
Eating from a raised bowl can relieve strain on your senior dog’s neck and back. Consider using elevated feeding stations to bring the food and water bowls closer to their level. This modification reduces the need to bend down, making mealtime more comfortable for your furry friend.
HOWEVER (and it’s an all-caps however for a reason), make sure you talk to your vet first. It sounds silly telling you to ask your vet before your change your dog’s food bowl, I know. But some breeds that are prone to bloat should NOT use elevated bowls. Plus, there may be medical conditions that make raised feeders less than ideal. So just ask your vet.
4. Orthopedic Bedding
Here’s another pretty simple (yet not always cheap) way to make your senior dog’s environment comfier: invest in a good orthopedic dog bed.
Orthopedic beds are designed to alleviate pressure on joints, which is particularly beneficial for dogs with arthritis or other joint issues. Look for beds with memory foam or high-quality padding to ensure maximum comfort.
I also came across the video below that I thought was just genius! If you have a large breed and don’t have the money for pricey beds (they can get SUPER expensive), buy a baby mattress instead. Seriously, in all of my years of buying and writing about dog beds, I never thought of that.
5. Temperature Control
Maintaining a comfortable temperature is crucial for senior dogs, as they can become more sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Ensure that their living area is well-insulated and consider using heating pads or cooling mats during extreme weather conditions to regulate their body temperature.
If you have a short-haired dog like I do, remember this good rule of thumb: if you’re too hot, they’re too hot; if you’re too cold, they’re too cold.
6. Clear Pathways
Cluttered pathways can be hazardous for senior dogs. Keep the floor clear of obstacles such as toys, shoes, or wires that they could trip over. This simple modification reduces the risk of accidents and allows your senior dog to move around with ease.
7. Adequate Lighting
Dim lighting can make it difficult for your senior dog to navigate around the house, especially at night or if he suffers from vision problems. Increase the lighting in their living area and install nightlights along common pathways to ensure they can see clearly and avoid any potential hazards.
8. Provide Joint Supplements
Consult with your veterinarian about providing joint supplements for your senior dog. These supplements can help improve mobility, reduce joint pain, and promote overall joint health. Adding them to your dog’s diet can significantly enhance their comfort and quality of life.
9. Create a Cozy Space
Designate a cozy, quiet space for your senior dog to relax and retreat to when they need some peace and quiet. Fill this area with their favorite bedding, toys, and familiar scents. This safe haven will provide them with a sense of security and comfort.
10. Regular Vet Check-ups
Lastly, ensure that your senior dog receives regular check-ups from the veterinarian. Regular examinations allow for early detection and treatment of any health issues. Your vet can provide additional guidance on modifying your home to cater to your senior dog’s specific needs.
Conclusion
Making a few modifications to your home can go a long way in keeping your senior dog comfortable and safe. From providing easy access to creating a cozy space, each adjustment contributes to their overall well-being. By taking these steps, you can provide your furry friend with the love, care, and comfort they deserve during their golden years.
GoCatGo Fetch Machine Cat Ball Launcher
If you are looking for a cat ball launcher that is ideal for cats of all sizes, you can try the GoCatGo Fetch Machine! The GoCatGo is one of the best automatic best cat launchers on the market today.
We tested this tennis ball launcher as soon as we unboxed it. Speaking of unboxing, the package includes five GoCatGo cat tennis balls, rechargeable lithium batteries, remote control, and an AC adapter.
The GoCatGo fetch machine offers a time-setting option that allows you to select launch intervals of four, seven, or fifteen seconds. A distance setting is also available, which varies based on the size and kind of ball used. It also comes with a remote control that works up to 50 feet away from the device.
My Maine Coon loves this automatic ball launcher as it is easier for him to drop the balls in the launcher’s wide-mouth ergonomic bucket. The bucket can hold up to 17 tennis balls (25-inch size). Based on my experience, though, you should use lighter balls if you want the ball to go far. Using a heavy ball will not launch it as far.
I did not experience problems with wet and slobbery balls. The launcher still worked even when the balls are already wet with our cat’s saliva. I am hoping the machine will meet my longevity expectations. Especially since the GoCatGo Fetch Machine is relatively expensive compared to other cat ball launchers on the market!
Pros and Cons at Glance
- Financial Protection
- Access to Quality Care
- Peace of Mind
- Preventive Care Options
- Monthly Premiums
- Exclusions and Limitations
- Upfront Payments
- Complex Policies
Advantages of Pet Insurance
Pet insurance helps cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills for accidents and illnesses, protecting you from significant out-of-pocket expenses. Monthly premiums make it easier to budget for your pet’s healthcare needs.
Insurance allows you to afford a wider range of treatments and procedures, including emergency care, surgeries, and specialist consultations. Some plans include coverage for preventive care such as vaccinations, dental cleanings, and annual check-ups.
Disadvantages of Pet Insurance
The need to pay monthly premiums can add up, and if your pet remains healthy, you might feel like you’re not getting your money’s worth. Pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, which can be a significant drawback if your pet has ongoing health issues.
Certain policies exclude hereditary or breed-specific conditions, limiting the coverage available. Most pet insurance plans operate on a reimbursement basis, meaning you must pay vet bills upfront and then wait for reimbursement, which can take time.
Author
Ryan
Writer
