Tender Care for Aging Paws: Caring for Senior Cats & Dogs in Singapore

As our beloved furry companions gracefully age, providing them with tender care becomes increasingly essential. In Singapore, where pets are cherished members of the family, the importance of understanding and meeting the needs of senior pets is more significant than ever. With their advancing age comes a special need for tender care and attention. In this blog, we'll explore the latest updates on senior pets in Singapore, share heartwarming stories of famous senior pets, and delve into the essential aspects of properly caring for aging furry babies.

Image from cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com

In Singapore, Dr. Kelly Yeo-- co-founder of The Gentle Vet, founded in 2020 and operated by a team of dedicated veterinarians including Dr. Yeo, focuses on a wide array of conditions affecting senior pets, from heart and kidney failures to diabetes and thyroid issues.

As pets age, they, like humans, can experience a range of health issues from declining sight and hearing to more serious conditions such as cancer. Dr. Kelly Yeo stands at the forefront of providing compassionate end-of-life care for senior pets, ensuring they receive the support and dignity they deserve in their final days. Motivated by the loss of her own beloved dogs, Dr. Kelly Yeo established The Gentle Vet to specialize in geriatric care and chronic illness management. Dr. Yeo emphasizes that such treatments are not about curing diseases in older pets but enhancing their quality of life and prolonging their time with loved ones.

Dr. Yeo's approach extends beyond medical treatment; she advocates for early screening and comprehensive care plans tailored to each pet's age and health status. Her clinic offers not only advanced medical treatments but also a 24-hour care facility equipped to handle critically ill, post-surgery, or end-of-life pets, providing essential support during these challenging times.

Dr. Kelly Yeo's work at The Gentle Vet exemplifies a compassionate and holistic approach to senior pet care in Singapore. Through her expertise, empathy, and unwavering commitment, Dr. Yeo ensures that every pet's final journey is filled with comfort, dignity, and the enduring love of those who cherish them as family.

Learn more here: https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/women/gentle-vet-dr-kelly-yeo-veterinarian-geriatric-pets-furbabies-pawrents-388481

• Kabosu: A Meme Icon's Legacy

Kabosu, a Japanese Shiba Inu, catapulted into internet fame as the face of the iconic "Doge" meme. Adopted from a puppy mill, her journey from obscurity to international recognition began with a simple snapshot in 2010. Crossing her paws on a sofa, Kabosu's picture captured hearts worldwide, spawning countless memes and even inspiring the cryptocurrency Dogecoin. Despite her internet stardom, Kabosu's true joy lay in the quiet moments with her owner, Atsuko Sato. In May 2023, Kabosu peacefully passed away at the age of 18, surrounded by love and gratitude from fans across the globe.
 

• Cala: The Melodious Meower

Cala, an orange tabby cat, gained fame on TikTok for her distinctive meows, immortalized in the viral sound "I Go Meow." Originally thought to be young, Cala's true age was revealed during her final days, as she passed away due to age-related illnesses. Her playful antics and endearing meows captured the hearts of millions, leading to widespread tributes and remembrances across social media. Through her videos and subsequent memes, Cala continues to bring joy and nostalgia, a testament to the impact of even the smallest companions.
 

• Munchie & Elmo: Dr. Kelly Yeo's Childhood Companions

Dr. Kelly Yeo, founder of The Gentle Vet in Singapore, understands the profound bond between humans and their pets through personal experience. Her childhood dogs, Munchie and Elmo, were not just pets but integral parts of her life. Despite their eventual battles with age-related illnesses, including blindness, deafness, and cancer, Munchie and Elmo remained resilient companions. Their journey through old age influenced Dr. Yeo's dedication to providing compassionate geriatric and palliative care at The Gentle Vet, ensuring that every senior pet receives comfort and dignity in their final days.
 

• Mimi: A Courageous Patient's Journey

Mimi's story exemplifies the resilience and hope found in the face of adversity. Diagnosed with a massive tumor and given a dire prognosis, Mimi's family refused to surrender hope. Under Dr. Yeo's care at The Gentle Vet, Mimi underwent chemotherapy that extended her life by eight precious months. Beyond medical treatment, Mimi's days were filled with walks and cherished moments with her family, highlighting the importance of quality of life in geriatric care.
 

• Scav: A Testament to Unwavering Devotion

Edvarcl Heng's bond with his 17-year-old Goldador, Scav, transcends the conventional definition of pet ownership. Afflicted by a rare nervous disease that left him immobile, Scav relies on around-the-clock care from Heng, who quit his job to ensure his beloved companion's comfort. With regular visits to The Gentle Vet and continuous support, Scav's story underscores the lengths to which pet owners will go to provide love and care in their pets' twilight years.

As our pets age, they require special attention and care to ensure their comfort and well-being. Understanding and meeting the unique needs of senior pets is essential for maintaining their quality of life and fostering a loving environment. Here’s a detailed exploration of how to care for your senior pet:

Understanding the Needs of Senior Pets

Senior pets, typically considered as those in the last third of their life expectancy, undergo various physical and behavioral changes. These changes may include:

• Reduced Mobility: Joint stiffness, arthritis, and decreased flexibility are common.
• Declining Senses: Hearing and vision impairments become more prevalent.
• Health Issues: Increased risk of diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer.

Recognizing these signs early allows pet owners to adapt and provide appropriate care to enhance their pet's comfort and overall well-being.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

Providing a comfortable living space is crucial for senior pets:

• Bedding: Opt for orthopedic beds to support joints and alleviate pressure points. Here's Petslumber Cloud Cat Bed for your senior cat's cloud-like comfort experience & Petslumber Dog Bed especially made for senior dogs with joint issues.
• Temperature Control: Ensure the environment is neither too hot nor too cold, as older pets are more sensitive to temperature extremes. Here are grooming tools that can help regulate temperature: Neabot Neakasa F1 Pet Dryer, Homerunpet Drybo Plus Automatic Pet Blow Dryer Machine, & Homerun Drybo Ultra Smart Pet Dryer (Large). An air purifier like FURRESH Air - Pet Air Purifier and Sanitiser is a great addition especially if you have pets with breathing issues.
• Accessibility: Make sure food, water, and favorite resting spots are easily accessible without the need to climb stairs or navigate obstacles. Pet fountains like Smartpaw Wireless Pet Water Fountain Gen 2, PETKIT Pet Water Fountain Gen 6 (APP), & Petree Automatic Pet Water Fountain Dispenser helps make sure your pet's water is safe & fresh! Make sure the areas they usually chill are clean itself & FURRESH Stain & Odor Remover & FURRESH Pet-Safe Floor Cleaner can help you with that.

Nutrition and Exercise

Nutrition: Senior pets benefit from specialized diets that cater to their changing nutritional needs:

• Quality Protein: Helps maintain muscle mass while supporting kidney function. Check out Daily Delight Canned Wet Food (Pure Range), Daily Delight Canned Wet Food (Jelly Range), & Daily Delight Canned Wet Food (Mousse Range) are a good source of protein & other hutrients your senior cat needs. Milk is also a great option like Zeal Lactose Free Pet Milk For Dogs & Cats.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote joint health and reduce inflammation. Zeal® Pure Natural New Zealand Hoki Fish Oil, Naturvet All-In-One (4-IN-1 Support) Soft Chews, & Labivet Probiotics Supplements are great food supplements to add to your senior pet's diet!
• Reduced Calories: Adjust portions to prevent obesity, which exacerbates age-related health conditions.
   

Exercise: While less vigorous than in their younger years, regular activity is vital for maintaining mobility and mental stimulation:

• Gentle Walks: Short, frequent walks help keep muscles toned and joints flexible. Make sure they stay hydrated during walks with ELSPET - Pet Bottle. Don't forget to clean your senior dog's paws every walk too to safeguard they're health with SMARTPAWLite Automatic Dog Paw Cleaner Gen 3 & FURRESH Paw Cleaner!
• Interactive Play: Engage in light play sessions to stimulate their mind and body without causing strain. Interactive toys that can match your senior pet's phase like Wickedball Interactive Dog Toy, Wickedbone - Smart & Interactive Dog Chewing Toy, Homerun - Smart Interactive Cat Toy, & Cheerble Mini WickedBall Interactive Cat Toy would be great!

Emotional Well-being

• Understanding Emotional Needs: Recognize signs of anxiety, loneliness, or confusion in senior pets. You can monitor & talk to them to help with separation anxiety with pet cameras like SMARTPAWBurpurr Pet Camera Eyepet3 & Skymee Owl Robot Pet Camera & Pet Treats Dispenser.
• Building Trust: Establish routines and use positive reinforcement to build a sense of security. Check out these 10 Effective Ways of Positive Reinforcement on Pets
• Quality Time: Spend dedicated time bonding with your pet through grooming, cuddling, and relaxing together. Make grooming easier for you and your senior pets with Neakasa S1 Pro: 8-in-1 Pet Grooming Vacuum for Dogs & Cats & Neabot Neakasa P2 Pro Pet Grooming Vacuum Kit
• Stress Management: Minimize stressors such as loud noises or changes in routine to promote a calm environment. Check out A Complete Guide: 13 Ways to Keep Your Pet Happy & Healthy
  
  Learn more about Senior Pets here: 7 Things to Expect When Adopting Senior Pets
  

Facing the farewell of a beloved pet is one of the most challenging experiences a pet owner can endure. Here’s how you can navigate this emotional journey with grace and compassion:

Emotional Preparation

• Recognizing Your Feelings: Understand that grief is natural and varies from person to person. Allow yourself to feel sadness, guilt, and loss.
• Honoring Your Bond: Reflect on the memories and special moments shared with your pet. Celebrate the love and companionship they brought into your life.
• Seeking Support: Lean on friends, family, or support groups who understand the unique bond between humans and pets. Sharing your emotions can alleviate the burden of grief.
   

Open Communication with Veterinarians

• Importance of Communication: Discuss your pet’s condition openly with your veterinarian. Understand the prognosis, treatment options, and palliative care available.
• Palliative Care: As discussed earlier, Dr. Yeo emphasizes the importance of palliative care to manage pain, ensure comfort, and enhance quality of life in senior pets. This approach allows pets to live their final days with dignity and minimal discomfort.
• Heartfelt Farewell: Our furry babies crossing the rainbow bridge is a time we know will come. Inspite of this fact, we can make sure that they receive a farewell that is as dignified and loving as the years they spent with us. You can check out The Finest Pet Cremation Services in Singapore. Being prepared is necessary emotionally, financially, & to properly cherish their memories at the same time.

In conclusion, caring for senior cats and dogs in Singapore is both a privilege and a responsibility. By staying informed, offering love and support, and seeking professional guidance when needed, we can ensure that our aging furry companions receive the care and respect they deserve as they journey gracefully into their twilight years!

There are lots of senior pets that would love to have their furever homes. Adopting one would not only help Singapore shelters but help aging furry babies have the time of their lives like never before: Adopt Don’t Shop: The Importance of Supporting Adoption Centers & Rescues in Singapore (With List Included)
  

Share this with your fellow pet owner friends who might need this information right now! Feel free to leave a comment down below about your advice or experience with senior pets, we would also love to read them!

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