There’s something so precious about senior dogs and it’s such a privilege to be able to care for them in their later years. As dogs age, the grooming process needs to be adapted in order for them to cope, as well as ensure their safety, not only physically but emotionally too.

There are many things to consider as dogs age such as their mobility and joint health, which can lead to weakness and instability meaning dog’s are at more risk being on the grooming table. Many dogs will suffer from deafness and blindness, this will often lead to them becoming more anxious and confused. Lumps and bumps can become more numerous as they get older and then there are diseases that may be present such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity…

There is also Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CDC) this is essentially dementia and is a huge problem for our dogs, especially during grooming as they may become anxious, confused and fearful.

All of these things need careful consideration and will need to be taken into account by your groomer.

As your pet begins to age their coat may often become thinner and their skin will lose elasticity, this will affect their groom and achieving their usual neat finish will be more difficult. Also skeletal changes, which are common, especially in the elbow and feet mean that your dog’s haircut could begin to look different too.

As I begin to notice changes in your pet I will always communicate this with you and discuss the best way forward to ensure your pet’s comfort. I always try to pre-warn owners, especially if your dog has a longer length, high maintenance coat. This hopefully gives you the opportunity to get used to the fact your dog will not be able to cope with their usual style in the future.

This is usually the first adaption that may need to take place, a shorter trim. This of course depends on different factors, such as your pets coat. Each pet is unique and the process will be different for them all.

You may notice your pet becoming a little confused, or behaving a little ‘different’ at home. These are signs your dog’s cognitive function is declining. Whilst at home they may cope well, however bringing them to have their groom can become very stressful for them. Familiar faces and places they are used to visiting are often forgotten and result in confusion and anxiety.

Sometimes dog’s suffer from what are known as “dryer seizures”. These aren’t actually seizures but similar to a panic attack. They are uncomfortable to witness but are thankfully over quickly for the dog. My own dog Pudding had a couple of these when he began to decline and it will mean that using the dryer may no longer be an option.

What are the options?

As well as a shorter length, it’s important to stick to your regular grooming schedule, however frequently that is. If your dog normally visits with another family dog I may suggest they visit separately if they begin to become unsettled. Occasionally a groom may need to be split over two days, this will happen if drying is a problem. It means they can be bathed one day, air dry in the comfort of their own home then come back the following day for their trim. Or if you’d prefer and you’re able to, you could bath them at home the day before their trim. In some cases I may ask you to stay with your dog while they’re being groomed, if I think it’s in your pets best interest and will help with any anxiety.

You will most likely notice your pet’s groom become less neat as they age. This is unfortunately, unavoidable. Elderly dogs can be very unstable and wobbly, often pacing around the table. They struggle with being brushed or having the clippers touch them, due to sensitivity or pain. It is difficult to move their limbs as they struggle to balance and are too stiff for me to be able to reach the areas I need to. Couple this with the fact I’m using razor sharp grooming tools. It’s much safer to opt for a few straggly hairs, rather than persist for the neatest groom!

Sometimes it may reach a point when all I can do is ensure a dog is knot free and hygiene areas, eyes and feet are maintained. This will happen when a dog is too weak, sick or stressed to cope with a bath or full groom.

Welfare over aesthetics…

My own little poodle, Berri was never a fan of being groomed and as she became older it became more difficult for her. The kindest option for her was to remove her coat.

There are so many positives to a short coat for senior dogs…

✂️ Little to no grooming at home between grooms.

✂️ Any lumps and bumps can be more easily monitored

☀️ Cooler in the summer.

❄️ Dries faster in the wet, cooler months, especially important for arthritic dogs.

🌱 Less chance of grass seeds.

⚠️ Fleas and ticks more easily seen and treatable.

What you can do to support your senior…

🦮 Take your dog for a short walk just before their appointment. Allow them to sniff, this will stimulate blood flow to the brain and muscles and help relax them.

🌿 Look into natural supplements to support the ageing process, such as for joints or brain function.

🐾 Keep up regular home grooming maintenance.

☺️ Trust your groomer! I will only ever suggest the best for your pet. Working together we can ensure we offer the maximum support for your precious senior.

Tina Clyde LCGI 💚

If you’d like to find out more information about how to support your senior dog, check out this blog next ⬇️

Nutrition For Your Senior Pets

http://www.pennviewpets.co.uk