November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month — a time to celebrate the wisdom, love, and companionship that older pets bring into our lives. At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home, no matter their age. While puppies and kittens often steal the spotlight, senior pets have just as much — if not more — to offer.
If you’ve ever considered adopting an older pet, or you’re currently caring for one, this month is the perfect opportunity to learn how to help them live their happiest, healthiest life.
Why Adopt a Senior Pet?
Adopting a senior pet is an incredibly rewarding experience. These animals often find themselves in shelters through no fault of their own — perhaps their owner passed away, moved to assisted living, or couldn’t manage medical costs. Sadly, older pets are frequently overlooked in favor of younger ones. Yet, they have so much love left to give.
Here are a few reasons to consider bringing a senior pet into your family:
1. What You See Is What You Get
With senior pets, their size, personality, and temperament are already established. You’ll know whether they prefer leisurely walks or cozy naps, how they interact with children or other pets, and whether they’re calm, energetic, or shy. There are no surprises — just the chance to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
2. They’re Often Already Trained
Most senior pets are house-trained, leash-trained, and understand basic commands. This makes the transition into your home smoother and less stressful for everyone involved.
3. They’re Grateful Companions
Older pets seem to know they’ve been given a second chance. Their loyalty, affection, and gratitude can form a deep, immediate bond that’s unlike any other relationship.
4. You’re Giving the Gift of Time
By adopting a senior pet, you’re offering them comfort, safety, and love in their golden years — a priceless act of kindness that truly changes lives.
How to Care for Your Senior Pet
Caring for a senior pet requires attention, empathy, and a few lifestyle adjustments. With the right approach, you can make their later years truly golden.
1. Schedule Regular Veterinary Visits
Preventive care is more important than ever for senior pets. At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we recommend semi-annual exams (2 per year) for older dogs and cats. These visits allow us to monitor changes in weight, dental health, heart and kidney function, and mobility — and to detect issues early, when they’re easiest to manage.
During your senior pet’s wellness visit, we may recommend:
- Routine bloodwork to screen for organ disease
- Urinalysis to evaluate kidney function
- Thyroid testing (especially for cats)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Dental evaluations
- Nutritional consultations
- Pain assessments
Your pet’s needs may evolve over time, and regular checkups ensure we stay ahead of those changes.
2. Feed a Senior-Appropriate Diet
A pet’s metabolism, digestion, and nutritional requirements shift as they age. Most senior dog foods are formulated with appropriate nutrient limits and are less calorie-dense (fewer calories per cup or can) than rations for puppies and young adults.
It’s important to avoid “one-size-fits-all” feeding — what works for one pet may not be ideal for another. Our veterinary team can help you select the right food and feeding plan based on your pet’s age, weight, activity level, and any medical conditions.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is one of the most common and preventable health issues in senior pets. Extra weight strains the joints, heart, and organs, increasing the risk of arthritis, diabetes, and other diseases.
On the other hand, unexplained weight loss can indicate underlying illness and should be evaluated promptly.
Maintaining a stable, healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to keep your senior pet feeling young.
4. Support Joint Health and Mobility
As your pet ages, movement may become more challenging — but keeping them active is vital. Gentle, low-impact exercise like short walks, swimming, or indoor play keeps joints lubricated and muscles strong.
You can also make your home more mobility-friendly:
- Provide orthopedic bedding for joint comfort
- Use ramps or stairs for furniture or vehicles
- Add non-slip rugs or mats to slippery floors
- Keep food, water, and litter boxes easily accessible
Your veterinarian may also recommend joint supplements or pain management options.
5. Prioritize Dental Care
Dental health often declines in senior pets, leading to pain, infection, and even organ damage.
Routine dental cleanings, along with at-home care such as brushing or dental chews, can significantly improve quality of life and longevity.
Even if your pet seems fine, dental disease can be a “silent” condition — your veterinarian can identify problems before they become advanced or painful.
6. Keep Up with Grooming and Hygiene
Older pets often need extra help with grooming. Arthritis can make it difficult for them to reach certain areas, leading to matting, skin irritation, or overgrown nails. Regular brushing, nail trims, and gentle baths help them stay comfortable and clean.
For cats, ensure litter boxes are easily accessible — consider low-sided boxes if arthritis makes climbing difficult.
7. Provide Mental and Emotional Enrichment
Senior pets benefit greatly from mental stimulation. Regular enrichment helps prevent boredom, frustration, and anxiety. Try:
- Food puzzles or snuffle mats
- Scent games or gentle training sessions
- Walks in new environments
- Soft toys or gentle tug games
- Massage or gentle brushing sessions
Even five minutes of engagement per day can lift their mood and strengthen your bond.
9. Plan for the Future with Compassion
Part of caring for a senior pet is preparing for the realities of aging. Discussing quality of life early — before your pet is in crisis — allows you to make compassionate, informed decisions when the time comes.
At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we’re here to support you through every stage of your pet’s life, including end-of-life care and hospice options. These conversations are never easy, but they ensure your beloved companion’s comfort and dignity are always prioritized.
Adopting a Senior Pet: What to Expect
If you’re thinking about adopting an older dog or cat, congratulations! You’re about to embark on a deeply rewarding journey. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth transition:
- Be patient: Give your new companion time to adjust. They may be confused or anxious at first, but consistency and love go a long way.
- Schedule a veterinary exam right away: We’ll perform a comprehensive checkup to assess health, recommend vaccinations, and discuss any ongoing care needs.
- Create a safe, comfortable space: Set up a quiet area with a cozy bed, food, water, and toys.
- Stick to a routine: Predictability builds confidence and helps them settle in faster.
- Focus on bonding: Spend time walking, playing, or simply sitting together. Many senior pets crave affection and reassurance.
Adopting a senior pet means embracing the present moment — celebrating the joy they bring today, rather than worrying about how much time is left. Each day with them is a gift.
Celebrate Senior Pets — This Month and Always
Adopt a Senior Pet Month is about more than just adoption — it’s about recognizing the incredible value of our aging animal companions. Senior pets teach us patience, compassion, and unconditional love. They remind us to slow down, appreciate small moments, and cherish the bond we share.
Whether you’re already caring for a senior pet or thinking of welcoming one into your home, know that you’re making a profound difference in their life. And we’re here to help you every step of the way — from preventive care and pain management to nutrition, enrichment, and end-of-life support.
We’re Here to Support Your Senior Pet’s Journey
At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, our mission is to provide compassionate, individualized care for pets at every life stage. We understand the unique needs of senior dogs and cats, and we’re dedicated to helping them live longer, happier, and more comfortable lives.
If your senior pet hasn’t had a wellness exam in the last six months, or if you’ve recently adopted an older animal, schedule a senior wellness visit today. Together, we can make their golden years shine even brighter.