Every dog or cat owner who approaches the end of their pet’s life is confronted with the challenging decision of how to best care for their beloved furry companion. In more difficult situations, the option of euthanasia is considered, often with the guidance of a veterinarian. However, this isn’t always the necessary or immediate choice for every pet. Sometimes, the preferred decision is to allow the animal to spend its final days in the comfort of its home. This involves adapting the household to accommodate a kind of ‘hospice’ care tailored to the pet’s needs.
Life Habits for Aging Pets
Generally, aging pets become very slow and less active. That said, even though they may sleep much of the day, they are still functional and can control themselves, respond (slowly) to commands, be present, and take care of themselves. However, as the end of life approaches, the pet may struggle with essential functions, experiencing difficulty in managing bodily functions and showing a decreased ability to eat. This can lead to various challenges, such as messes, stains, and minor accidents throughout the home, causing added stress for the animals already dealing with these changes.
Avoid the Cage, Go With Containment
When a dog or cat is in its last days, the last thing it wants is separation from the humans it loves. Indeed, the opposite holds true; offering companionship actually alleviates the discomfort or fear the animal may feel when it’s aware that its end is approaching soon. The utilization of well-placed modular barriers, like those provided by Clearly Loved Pets, helps create this environment, keeping the animal from causing damage throughout the home while also keeping it comfortable and close to the humans it loves.
Observe Their Behavior: Their Final Way of Communicating with You
Pets communicate incredibly with their body behavior, especially towards an older age when they finally figure out how to better explain themselves to their humans. As they become sick and age, animals strive to communicate these messages earnestly. Dogs, in particular, exhibit remarkable selflessness, making every effort to adhere to commands and show obedience, especially in their final stages. This is when owners’ care becomes pivotal, necessitating accommodation and closeness. When their time comes, being surrounded by caring humans will reassure them, providing solace and comfort in their final moments.
