Seeing your dog's back legs suddenly just give way can be incredibly upsetting? Your mind probably races, thinking things like, "Why can't my old buddy walk?" or "Will my poor dog ever get over this hind-end paralysis?" Trust me, those worries are totally normal. But...
Navigating the Twist: Pivot Shift After TPLO
Haka's Story and Understanding Pivot Shift Hey there, fellow senior dog parents! If your wonderful companion has recently had TPLO surgery, you're likely hyper-focused on their recovery, celebrating every little milestone. I remember those days so well, especially...
Decoding Dog Pain
What are the Subtle Signs and Why Early Detection Matters As our beloved canine companions enter their golden years, it's natural for them to slow down a bit. But how do we distinguish between normal aging and pain? As a senior veterinary rehabilitation therapist,...
Physical Therapy for Senior Dogs
Enhancing Comfort and Mobility in Their Golden Years You know that look your old buddy gives you? The one that used to be full of bouncy energy, now a little slow, maybe a little hesitant going up the stairs? I saw sweet Maggie, a 12-year-old golden retriever, just...
Your Pet’s Genes Aren’t Set in Stone
Unlocking Epigenetics for Happier, Healthier Dogs Ever wonder why two puppies from the same litter can have such different personalities or health outcomes? It's not just about their genes. We often think of our pets’ health as being determined by their DNA, a sort of...
Shining a Light on Photobiomodulation (Laser Therapy)
Hey fellow senior dog lovers! Dr. Megan here, ready to tackle those burning questions you have about keeping our golden oldies thriving. As our dogs age, we all want to ensure they enjoy their senior years with comfort and joy- and retain the ability to do the basic...
The 6 Senior Dog Bath Questions Every Owner Asks
Is bath time a battle for your senior dog? You're not alone. Many dog owners find it challenging to keep their older pups clean and comfortable. Keeping your dog clean and comfortable is essential for maintaining your senior dog's skin health and overall comfort...but...
Why Crate Rest Isn’t Just Physical Healing (And How to Keep Your Dog Sane!)
So your best friend just had surgery. The vet’s instructions are clear: strict dog crate rest. You’ve got the comfy bedding, the water bowl, and a mountain of patience. But as you watch the dog stare longingly out of the crate, you can’t help but wonder… is this all...
Senior Dog-Proofing Your Home
Ensure elderly dog safety by learning how to implement crucial senior dog proofing strategies in your home, preventing falls and injuries while improving your aging companion's quality of life. Discover simple yet effective tips to create a safe and comfortable...
Turning Vet Visits into Paw-ties: A Guide to Calm and Stress-Free Veterinary Care
Make vet visits less stressful for your dog. This article offers practical tips. Learn how to prepare your dog for a stress-free vet exam. Desensitize them to car rides. Practice handling at home. Create positive vet clinic associations. Discover ways to keep them...
What Is FHO Surgery, and How Can It Help Your Dog?
Is your dog struggling with dog arthritis or other hip issues? Learn how Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO) surgery can provide pain relief and restore mobility, plus the crucial role of rehabilitation in a successful recovery. FHO surgery can significantly improve...
BUSTING THE MYTH: Senior Dogs Do Need Exercise (Just the Right Kind!)
As our dogs enter their golden years, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking they need less activity. After all, they’re slowing down- this is just natural, right? While it’s true their exercise needs change, drastically reducing their activity can actually do...
Understanding Heartworms
Prevention and Treatment of Heartworms for Cats and Dogs Heartworms are a serious but preventable health concern for both dogs and cats. As a new pet owner, it’s essential to understand what heartworms are, how they can impact your pet’s health, and what you can do to...
Old Age Itself Is Not a Disease
Aging is a natural and inevitable part of life, yet the myth of "Old age itself is a disease." persists. This misconception can lead to neglecting very treatable conditions and missing opportunities to improve a senior dog’s quality of life. In reality, aging is a...
Understanding Dog Dementia
Is Your Senior Dog Showing Signs of Confusion? Seeing your once vibrant dog become confused and disoriented can be incredibly distressing. You're not alone. Many pet parents face the challenges of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), often referred to as "dog...
Is Skipping Senior Dog Dental Cleanings Costing You More in the Long Run?
The Myth and Its Impact Have you ever had those days when you’re cuddling with your dog and they gaze soulfully into your eyes…and you have try very hard not to want to vomit? Some owners luck out and have dogs that need little to no dental care throughout the course...
Busting the Myth: All Dogs Age the Same – Understanding Dog Size as an Aging Factor
Have you ever wondered why your neighbor’s seven year old Great Dane seems to have slowed down considerably while your friend’s Jack Russell is still acting like a crazy puppy well into their teens? It's a common misconception that all dogs age at the same rate....
Helping Your Aging Pet
Support for Pets: Slowing Down, Limited Mobility, and Mental Stimulation As our pets get older, they start to experience the world a little differently. For many elderly pets, hip dysplasia, arthritis, or general aging can make it tough to move as freely as they once...
Understanding and Managing Hip Dysplasia in Young Dogs
Young Dogs Can Get Hip Dysplasia Too! Hip dysplasia is a common and often painful condition that can impact a young dog's quality of life. As a veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand how the right approach can make a world of difference for dogs with this condition. If...
What Frenchie Owners Should Know About Spinal Health
French Bulldogs are known for their adorable, stocky bodies and charming personalities, but their unique build makes them more susceptible to certain health issues—particularly spinal conditions like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), hemivertebrae, degenerative...