Senior dogs need to visit the local veterinarian more often than adult dogs, and a trip to the local veterinarian can be more difficult on them, so here are some steps that you can follow to keep those visits to the local veterinarian a little easier on your senior dog.

• If you have a large senior dog that is having problems walking or getting up into the car, try to have another person come with you. This person can help you get your dog in and out of the car.
• If you have a large vehicle that your senior dog can’t get in and out of easily, purchase a doggie ramp so that they won’t have to try and jump and risk injury.
• Make the ride to the local veterinarian as comfortable as possible. Lay down a blanket and maybe put some of their favorite toys in there with them.
• Use the ramp at your local veterinarian office instead of taking the stairs. Hopefully, most local veterinarian offices have ramps installed for their senior patients and if not, ask a staff member if they can help you with your senior dog.
• Take your time. Allow yourself plenty of time when taking your senior dog to visit the local veterinarian. Seniors dogs move slower and you don’t want them to injure themselves because they are moving too fast. Make sure to take precautions when walking on slippery floors.
• Take your senior dog’s favorite toy or treat to visit your local veterinarian. Most senior dogs would love to have their favorite toy right by their side during their checkup.
• Don’t overdo it. Try to keep your senior dog from getting overexcited when visiting their local veterinarian and keep them close to you. There may be some dogs that are there that are ill or not dog friendly, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Taking your senior dog to see their local veterinarian is an important part of their senior health care, and the easier you can make that visit on them, the better it is for them.