The cold that has enveloped most of the U.S. lately has no doubt exacerbated some aging symptoms in older pets. Older animals may suffer from osteoarthritis or neurologic conditions that limit physical activity. Beyond physical activities, cognitive issues increase, sensory capabilities decline and anxiety may follow as older pets often become ignored.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, December 2017.
Treatment at a glance:
- Targeted enrichment, including environmental or communication adaptations, for pets with limited abilities
- Acute and chronic physical exercise
- Olfactory, visual, and auditory enrichment
- Positive reinforcement
- Social enrichment