Senior Dog & Cat Tips

Video: How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

June 2nd, 2025 by Ima Admin

What: Enzymatic Toothpaste – starting with enticing food-like flavors like poultry and gradually moving to more appealing flavors like vanilla mint. A soft adult toothbrush, a fingertip, or gauze work well to distribute the paste. In this video, Dr. Kim Barnes, DVM, demonstrates simple techniques for brushing your dog’s teeth, keeping the experience rewarding and appealing for your pet while taking care of their dental needs.

Why It Matters: Dental care is important for your dog’s health, especially as they approach their senior years. Taking the time to brush your pet’s teeth can prevent further dental complications and improve overall health.

More Information on Brushing Your Senior Dog’s Teeth:

Proper dental care can help prevent systemic diseases like cancer. Vulnerabilities in your pet’s mouth can cause certain bacteria to enter the bloodstream, possibly spreading infection.
Careful tooth-brushing can reduce the risk of periodontal disease, which can cause your pet a great deal of discomfort. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly can prevent or slow this issue.
Brushing your dog’s teeth can keep their breath smelling fresh – which is nicer for your pet and everyone else involved!

Should You Consider Adopting a Senior Pet?

May 9th, 2025 by Ima Admin

Adopting a senior pet can be one of the most rewarding, compassionate decisions you make. You know what you’re getting, they’re often already trained, and they’re calmer companions who, if left in a shelter, are at risk for early euthanasia.

“It’s important to make sure adopting a senior pet is the right match for your lifestyle and home. Older dogs and cats often need a little extra care, but they give back tenfold in love, gratitude, and companionship,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.
Here are four questions to help you make that assessment. Read the rest of this entry »

Leptospirosis Update: Urban Risk & Vaccine Recommendation

April 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal bacterial disease that affects dogs and is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. In the past, it was considered higher risk for animals in rural areas with access to warm, wet, stagnant areas such as standing water, mud puddles, and even swollen rivers and ponds, where it can linger for months after being shed by wildlife and rodents when they urinate.

Leptospirosis is most often transmitted to dogs through mucous-membrane (mouth, nose or eye) contact with the urine of infected animals and/or contaminated food, bedding, soil, or water. Dogs may also be infected through the bite of, or by eating, an infected animal. Raccoons, skunks, opossums, rats, cows, and pigs are all known carriers of the infection. Dogs can also become infected from close contact with another infected dog.

Historically, vaccination against leptospirosis was considered “non-core,” (elective) recommended primarily for dogs with specific risk factors or living in higher risk areas. However, recent developments have led major veterinary organizations, including the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), to reclassify the leptospirosis vaccine as “core” (essential) for all dogs.

“This shift underscores the importance of universal vaccination to protect canine health. Infection can lead to severe health issues, including kidney and liver failure, and can be fatal if not promptly treated. It can also be transmitted from animals to humans, posing public health concerns,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Early signs of Leptospirosis include:

Loss of appetite
Increase or decrease in urine production
Uncharacteristic inactivity
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Severe weakness and depression
Stiffness
Fever

Why Vaccinate Against Leptospirosis

Increased Prevalence: Leptospirosis has been reported in diverse geographic
regions including Michigan, affecting dogs of all sizes, breeds, and lifestyles,
including those in urban areas.
Improved Vaccine Safety: Advancements in vaccine formulations have enhanced
safety profiles, reducing the incidence of adverse reactions.
Expert Recommendations: Organizations like AAHA and ACVIM have updated their
guidelines to recommend annual leptospirosis vaccination for all dogs starting at 12 weeks
weeks of age, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of widespread immunization.

Video: How to Use Assisi Loop to Reduce Pain and Inflammation

April 28th, 2025 by Ima Admin

What: The Assisi Loop uses Targeted Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (tPEMF) therapy to reduce pain and inflammation in animals. Studies have shown that tPEMF can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, enhance cellular repair, and reduce pain by triggering the release of anti-inflammatory molecules. In this video, Dr. Kim Barnes, DVM, demonstrates how simple the application of the device is for pet parents who want to provide home therapy.

Why It Matters: This type of therapy is simple, non-invasive, and may help increase comfort and mobility for senior pets. It may also reduce the amount of pain medication needed.

More Information on tPEMF Therapy Uses:

Several studies have demonstrated the Assisi Loop’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation in animals with various conditions, including spinal surgery recovery and arthritis.
Research has shown that tPEMF therapy can significantly reduce pain and inflammation in dogs recovering from spinal surgery, with some studies reporting lower levels of pain and inflammation compared to those who did not receive the therapy.
A study on dogs with osteoarthritis showed improved mobility and reduced pain after consistent use of the Assisi Loop, suggesting its potential for managing chronic pain without relying on pharmaceuticals.
Some research suggests that tPEMF therapy can also help manage pain in other conditions, including intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).

For more information on the Assisi Loop, please visit: https://assisi.zomedica.com/

Protecting Your Cats (and Dogs) from Avian Flu

March 31st, 2025 by Ima Admin

Millions of migratory birds and hundreds of commercial flocks in Michigan and surrounding states were infected with H5N1 Avian – “Bird” – flu this winter. The strain most deadly to felines was found in American dairy cattle as early as March of 2024, and then was found in unpasteurized milk and some brands of raw pet food earlier this year, causing illness and euthanasia in dozens of cats. Bird flu threatens to become pervasive this spring, and it’s vitally important that pet parents remain vigilant in the face of a pet pandemic.

“This strain of Avian flu is especially dangerous for senior felines. In Michigan, indoor cats on dairy farms have contracted it through indirect exposure. This suggests it’s highly contagious. Watching for early symptoms and protecting your pet is vital,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. Read the rest of this entry »

Food Safety for Your Pets During the Holidays

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Do you know what foods your senior pet should avoid during the Holiday season? And which foods are healthful? Heaven at Home’s medical director, Dr. Amy Hoss, teams up with Dr. Kim Barnes to give you great advice on what – and what not – to share with your beloved companion during the holidays. Check it out, then follow us for more new videos each month on Tiktok, YouTube and Instagram!

Transcript

Dr. Amy Hoss:
Hi. I’m Dr. Amy, the medical director at Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
And I’m Dr. Kim. I’m one of the associates here at Heaven at Home, and this is Gilly, our star of the show.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And just as a reminder, everything we’re talking about today is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for any medical advice that you can get from your veterinarian, who is familiar with any unique medical needs of your pet.

And a common question that we get as veterinarians is, are leftovers safe for my pet?
A good question to ask yourself is, does my pet have any food sensitivities or allergies? If that’s the case, then, of course, avoid that item.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Another good question to ask yourself is, does my pet have any underlying diseases like pancreatitis or diabetes? In those cases, it’s best to avoid any new or unusual foods.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
Watch out for uncooked food and rising bread dough while you’re getting ready for the meal, bustling around the kitchen and entertaining your guests.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
And as the meal winds down, be mindful of any scraps that may contain bits of bone and also the extra bits of skin that could contain excessive fat. All of these could cause stomach upset or bigger problems.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
As a general rule, any foods that contain garlic or onion should be avoided. That could be your green bean casserole, your stuffing and any other side dishes.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Other toxic foods that can sneak into your dishes are baker’s chocolate, dark chocolate, macadamia nuts, raisins, grapes, and sweeteners like xylitol.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And as with all food safety, if it’s been in the refrigerator a little too long and you wouldn’t eat it yourself, it’s probably not safe to give to your pets, either.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
So we’ve talked about a lot of foods that our pets can’t eat. What are some things we can share with our furry friends?

We can give them green beans, potatoes, and other veggies. Those are always a great option.

A little bit of turkey, a little bit of ham, just for being mindful of keeping them sauce-free in case those sauces contain any of the foods that we’ve had that we spoke about before that are not safe.

And also maybe a little bit of that pie crust.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
So we’ve discussed some foods to avoid and some foods that are safe for your pets, but there’s a few other things that we should mention that come with the holidays.
So your guests may not be used to having inquisitive pets around. So make sure you avoid these items, drinks, edibles, and also gum.

So pets may like eggnog, but they should avoid it and other forms of drinks, so especially coffee and other forms of alcohol.

Also in Michigan, marijuana is legal, but be sure to keep any edibles or other forms of gum or sugar-free candy out of reach as those can contain xylitol, as we talked about earlier, that be very toxic to pets.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Very true. So if your pets have been exposed to any of these things that we’ve talked about or you have any concerns, please reach out to your local emergency veterinary clinic or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control. We’ll list the number below.

Dr. Amy Hoss:
And for more great senior pet tips or any information on home euthanasia or aftercare, follow us on our webpage at pethospicevet.com or like us and follow us on social media.

Dr. Kim Barnes:
Thank you for joining us today.

The Surprising Importance of ‘Pawdicures’ for Pets

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Did you know that regular nail maintenance for senior dogs alleviates pain, improves mobility, and supports rehabilitation? Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is essential. Here’s why:

Posture & Pain

Long nails cause discomfort and severe consequences in senior dogs because they alter the natural alignment of the paws, forcing your companion to shift his or her weight improperly. This can lead to pain in the joints, ligaments, and muscles. According to a study published in Veterinary Surgery, prolonged postural changes due to overgrown nails exacerbate arthritis.

“For a dog, walking on long nails feels like wearing very high heels! Trimming the nails reduces pressure on the toe joints, helping to restore proper posture. This relief can significantly improve a senior dog’s comfort and quality of life,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

That’s why veterinary surgeons and rehabilitation specialists recommend weekly nail trimming on senior dogs. Frequency helps prevent the “quick” (the fleshy part) inside the nail from getting too long and avoids the vicious cycle of over-sensitized toe pads and traumatic clipping sessions with bleeding.

Slips & Falls

Properly trimmed nails ensure that the dog’s paws make full contact with the ground, improving grip and stability. Research in canine biomechanics shows that dogs with well-maintained nails exhibit better balance and fewer incidents of slips and falls, especially on slippery surfaces. The Heaven at Home team routinely recommends that pet parents use foam mats and even toe grips to further prevent slip risks at home.

Rehabilitation Support

For senior dogs recovering from surgery or managing conditions such as hip dysplasia, maintaining short nails is crucial. Physical therapists for animals often emphasize nail care as part of rehabilitation programs. Long nails can interfere with gait retraining exercises, impeding progress. A study from the Journal of Small Animal Practice notes that dogs undergoing rehabilitation therapy for orthopedic issues demonstrated better outcomes when nail care was incorporated into their treatment plan.

Tips for Safe Nail Care

Use high-quality nail trimmers designed for dogs, and/or consider a grinder (such as a Dremel tool) if your dog doesn’t tolerate clippers or you prefer smoother edges.
Trim gradually to avoid cutting into the quick, which can be painful and cause bleeding.
If unsure about proper techniques, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian for home tutorials.

Trimming senior dogs’ nails is more than a grooming necessity—it is a key aspect of their health care routine. By reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and supporting rehabilitation, regular nail maintenance can dramatically improve the quality of life for aging dogs.

Comfort Care in the Twilight Years of Your Cat

December 20th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Cats are stoic creatures, and are loath to admit when they’re in pain. Ensuring that your kitty is comfortable in their senior years or when they have a life limiting illness may require some sleuthing.

“Cats are excellent at masking pain due to traits inherited by their wild ancestors. We want to monitor criteria like appetite, mobility, and enjoyment of family and simple pleasures to gauge their quality of life,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.

Home Observation:

Observe subtle changes in your kitty’s physical health and behavior. Watch for:

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Has your cat lost interest in their meals or eat with less enthusiasm? Are they spilling their food when they used to be tidy?
Decreased Mobility
Did your kitty love to sleep in their cat tree but doesn’t anymore? Maybe they don’t get up on the couch or bed to snuggle like they used to?
Hiding and Behavioral Changes
Do you see less of your cat than when they were younger? Have they stopped purring or asking for pets?
Poor Grooming and Appearance
Does your kitty’s fur seem more matted or dull? Perhaps you don’t see them grooming themselves like they used to?
Chronic Illness
Cats diagnosed with terminal conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, or advanced arthritis may reach a stage where curative treatment is no longer effective. It may be time for the focus to be solely on keeping them comfortable.

Comfort Care Elements:

Discuss your home observations and any diagnosis with your veterinary team. Pain management, including medications and alternative treatments (like laser therapy, massage, and acupuncture), hydration and nutrition, along with environmental improvements, can all be part of the Care Plan for your kitty.

Environmental Modifications:

Making small adjustments at home can significantly improve a senior cat’s quality of life:

Provide a cat warming bed; use ramps/steps to help them get to their favorite spots
Try water fountains, easy access bowls, and warming their food to encourage consumption
Give them a quiet, comfortable place to escape to
Use low sided litter boxes with easy access
Find interactive toys or games you both will enjoy

Assessing Quality of Life:

Pain, Grimace, and Quality of Life scales can all help pet parents assess their cat’s comfort level and contentment. These Tools and Resources can be found in our TOOLS section.

When pain or distress outweighs moments of joy, euthanasia may be a compassionate option to prevent further suffering. The goal is always to prioritize your cat’s dignity and well-being, and to ensure a peaceful passing at the end of their life’s story.

The Pet Effect – Ways Dogs Can Improve Cancer Therapy & Potential Pet Care Challenges

October 7th, 2024 by Ima Admin

Lower blood pressure. Feelings of well-being from the release of oxytocin. Increase in blood oxygenation. Improved endocrine responses.

There are many reasons dogs have earned the title of “(wo)man’s best friend,” and research continues to find new ones.

The Human Animal Bond Institute (HABRI) currently has more than 30 ongoing studies that investigate the impact of our companion animals in specific scenarios, from children with autism spectrum disorders to healthy aging. At the heart of this research are the scientifically documented benefits of the human-animal bond, which include decreased blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and enhanced feelings of well-being.

In humans undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer, research has shown that animal-assisted activities reduce depression by as much as 50%.

“Numerous studies suggest that pet ownership offers emotional support and connection for cancer patients,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. “The challenge can be to find ways to simplify pet care for owners undergoing treatment, particularly when the companion animal is also aging or has a life-limiting disease.”

HABRI announced funding for a new research project that will explore the challenges cancer patients encounter in caring for their pets throughout the course of their treatment and recovery. Researchers at the University of Colorado will be looking for gaps and interventions to better address their pet-related needs – because the physiological and psychological benefits are worth it:

Interacting with dogs has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which is associated with stress. This reduction in stress hormones can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Petting a dog triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that enhances feelings of trust and bonding. Oxytocin not only helps in reducing stress but also improves social interaction and emotional resilience.
Patients who engage in regular physical activity, such as walking with a dog, tend to experience better overall outcomes during their therapy. The exercise not only boosts cardiovascular health but also increases blood oxygenation and enhances the body’s natural immune response.
Companionship of a dog can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness that are common among cancer patients. The presence of a loyal, non-judgmental companion can significantly improve a patient’s mood, providing a distraction from the rigors of treatment.

“Ensuring support for pet care during cancer treatment is vital for both the companion animal and his or her human counterpart,” Dr. Brush said. “My hope is that HABRI’s new research project helps coordinate good planning across health care, social service and veterinary professionals.”

Visit the PetHospiceVet.com blog for tips on senior companion animal care and more.

Pet Pain Awareness Month: Early Intervention for Osteoarthritis

September 3rd, 2024 by Ima Admin

Every September, the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) promotes pain awareness to foster best practices in the prevention and treatment of pain in animals. One source of pain that affects millions of pets each year is Osteoarthritis (OA).

One in every 5 dogs will experience OA pain and mobility challenges in their lifetime, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. In cats, some estimates suggest that degenerative joint disease prevails in anywhere from 40 to 90% of cases.

The cascade of arthritic events starts with cartilage damage and loss, followed by the release of inflammatory mediators. OA then progresses to synovial membrane inflammation, then bone remodeling/osteocytes that lead to heightened pain and disability. Read the rest of this entry »