Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Or are you still working on your list? Your canine friend will definitely appreciate a special snack or present. Of course, if Fido is in his golden years, his wish list will look a bit different than a puppy’s would. A Wichita, KS vet lists some great holiday gifts for older dogs below.

Beds

A good bed is a great gift for an older pooch. Look for one that offers lots of support, such as an orthopedic bed. (It doesn’t matter if Fido already has one: it’s nice to have options.)

Treats

Fido will never outgrow his love of tasty treats. It’s probably safe to say your pooch won’t mind store-bought snacks. However, if you like baking, why not make your dog’s snacks? There are lots of recipes online. You can also make your own. Just stick with safe ingredients.

Dental Products

We know, Fido probably won’t get too excited at the sight of a doggy toothbrush in his stocking. Dental-formula treats and chews, however, may elicit a bit more interest … or at least a head tilt.

Toys

Your canine pal may not be as playful as he once was, but he’ll still have his moments of zoominess. Playing also offers Fido beneficial mental stimulation, and keeps him active. Look for toys that were made specifically for older dogs. These may light up or make noise, which makes them easy to track. Others will be very soft on Fido’s mouth.

Laser Therapy

Do you know or suspect that your canine buddy has a bone/joint issue, such as arthritis? If you’re not sure, have your vet examine him. This is a very common affliction in older dogs. While it cannot be cured, there are treatments that can help soothe Fido’s pain and help improve his mobility. Laser therapy, for example, can be quite helpful. Ask your vet for more information.

Massage

Did you know that many dogs enjoy massages? A session with a pet masseuse may be a great gift for Fido. Pair it up with a trip to the salon, a pawdicure, and a yummy dinner, and you’ve pretty much got the doggy equivalent of a spa day.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Wichita, KS vet clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care.