What would we give for extra time with our beloved companion animals before they cross the Rainbow Bridge? What if there was a way from maturity onward to expand not only their lifespan, but their “healthspan” too? The concept of aging well, and longer, is a hot topic that’s enjoying a burst of research activity in the human realm. Much of that research applies to animals too. In fact, many of the early findings in longevity are coming from canine research through the Dog Aging Project. Current longevity research is focused on slowing down what’s known as the mTor signaling pathway, the syste ..read more

Arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects senior dogs, causing pain and discomfort that can greatly diminish their quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in veterinary medicine have introduced promising treatments like Librela, a novel medication designed to alleviate arthritis symptoms in dogs. “In the field of pet hospice and euthanasia, quality of life and the ability to manage pain are key factors that weigh into difficult decisions. Many senior dogs can enjoy an improved quality of life and an extension of their sunset years through treatment with this game-changing class of ..read more

As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, innovative treatments are emerging to enhance the comfort of senior companion animals. One such breakthrough is red light therapy, a non-invasive treatment that has shown promising medical benefits for dogs. Backed by research from reputable veterinarian journals, this therapy is shedding light on new ways to alleviate pain, accelerate healing, and improve overall canine health. “The initial research is promising,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Dr. Brush returned recently from the International Association of Animal Ho ..read more

As our loyal canine companions age, they may encounter challenges such as vision and hearing loss. These conditions can be distressing, but with understanding, patience, and proper care, pet parents can provide their companions with a comfortable and fulfilling life. “Vision or hearing loss in your dog is not a death sentence. We routinely see senior pets enjoying a high quality of life despite diminished vision or hearing. However, it’s vital to create a system of communication, engagement and comfort to keep your pet happy and safe,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, DVM and founder of Heaven at Home ..read more

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, a campaign by the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) to help pet parents identify pain in their companion animals. For Heaven at Home Pet Hospice, every month is pain awareness month, because the compassionate management of pain can improve an animal’s quality of life and prevent premature euthanasia. The practice of pain management in cats can be challenging due to their wily nature. “Cats are particularly adept at masking injury and illness because they instinctively hide signs of weakness from potential predators. They’re h ..read more

In the wake of COVID, you’ve likely heard about the benefits of monoclonal antibody therapy. In an effort to reduce pain, improve mobility and quality-of-life, this type of biological therapy has been harnessed to treat dogs and cats suffering from Osteoarthritis (OA). Monoclonal antibodies, also known as “mAbs,” are proteins made in laboratories that act like the proteins called antibodies in our bodies – and in your pet’s body too. It mimics your pet’s own immune system to target and neutralize a protein called Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) that stimulates pain in pets with OA. The key advantag ..read more

“Catercise” might sound like a great Instagram hashtag, but for felines, the power of play is unparalleled for keeping senior kitties fit. “Daily short sets of exercise can improve mobility, help manage pain, and keep your kitty’s cognitive function intact,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. In other words, an engaged kitty is a happy cat. What if your cat is quite content to be sedentary…lazy even? After all, research shows that older cats sleep up to 20 hours per day! Experts recommend scheduling your catercise routines around peak active hours, typically sun-up ..read more

These exercise tips for senior pets are a continuation of our Movement Is Medicine series to help pet parents engage their companion’s bodies and minds! “Exercise offers more than physical benefit alone. Senior pets benefit from the emotional and mental engagement,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Here are some great routines: Cavalettis – are great for strength, balance, and flexibility. Walking over a series of raised surfaces with slow, controlled movement builds muscle in your dog’s trunk and legs and helps them balance around obstacles. You can make your o ..read more

Humans, canines and felines have more in common than you might think. We know that core strength and exercise offer mental and physical health benefits for senior humans. As the field of geriatric veterinary medicine evolves, we’re learning that the same applies to pets! Benefits in mental health, as well as cognition, result even from physical exercise alone, and specific exercises offer interventions to improve the quality of life for aging pets. “Research shows that an exercise program that blends flexibility, range of motion, balance, strength and endurance will improve a pet’s quality of ..read more

Winter weather can be tough on senior pets suffering arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. Pain mitigation strategies include traditional medication, supplementation and environmental enhancements such as warming beds, cold-weather apparel, and paw-protection. One area of increasing interest to pet parents is LDN therapy for pain and inflammation management. “While we can’t turn back time, there are many ways you can give your cat or dog the gift of a more comfortable winter, and LDN is a promising part of that strategy,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Wha ..read more