Our four-legged companions age just like we do, but much faster. Nutrition, exercise, and companionship should be at the top of your list when looking for the best ways to support your dog for a long, happy life.
Nutritional Needs for Senior Dogs
As dogs age, their digestive systems often slow down, leading to a decrease in appetite and nutrient absorption. Formulated with prebiotics to aid in digestion, Sundays is made with healthy, digestive aids such as chicory root, pumpkin, and ginger. Their fresh, human-grade dog food can work well with sensitive canine tummies. It also solves the “messy dog food problem.”
Once dogs reach what is considered a really “advanced age,” many can no longer digest a full-sized meal. When our senior dog recently arrived at this point (14 years old!), smaller portions meant that mealtimes multiplied and got really messy with scooping out soft, canned food. With Sundays, we can quickly and easily give her small, snack-sized portions during the day — with absolutely no mess. It has been a welcomed nutritional add to her routine. Izzy loves it; and since her tummy is able to keep it down, we might love it more.
Adding a Second Dog to the Home
Introducing a younger dog to a household with an older dog can yield significant benefits in terms of behavior and health. Still, we were blown away by the impact a companion would have on our entire household. We anticipated maybe one year at most with both dogs in the house, but we’ve now had over three years together.
Our 14-year-old field spaniel grew up with our oldest daughter — they were inseparable. As college loomed on the horizon, my husband and I began to wonder if Izzy’s health would decline in our daughter’s absence. This big life transition was somewhat smoother due to the addition of a 4-legged companion (read more about bringing home a new pet here).
While many dogs are initially not thrilled with a young companion, most find an extra pep in their step and a renewed desire to play. These two run in the yard together and the growth of playful interactions has kept her cognitive decline at bay. The companionship has been symbiotic — as many multigenerational relationships are. Izzy was rejuvenated and much less sedentary. As a puppy, Rory learned helpful routines and quickly picked up those “potty” training skills.
The Biochemical Bonuses Multiply
The unconditional love, companionship, extra endorphins, and cortisol-lowering ability of pets are multiplied by two. Watching Rory nudge Izzy (who is completely deaf) to let her know that someone has arrived home is positively mood-changing. Furry friends also naturally necessitate a routine, which is extremely helpful during times of transition.
A dog’s existence seamlessly connects us to others. A text from campus, “to send dog pics please,” works wonders in stress reduction and has a way of making the miles between us feel less distant.
If you are looking for healthy, digestive support for your senior dog — or for the companion that keeps them young — try adding Sundays to your routine and receive a 40% discount with code AGEIST.
In case you missed it, meet Scout (February Dog of the Month) and Rory (March Dog of the Month). If you have a special dog that you’d like to tell us about, use the comment box below or email us — we’d love to hear about your furry friend.
GREAT SUGGESTIONS for our pets !!!
I am so glad you enjoyed the suggestions! We are seriously surprised by our extra years with Izzy and Rory was the puppy I did not know our family needed. And – they keep our college girls connected to us daily. They love to see pics of their furry friends.
Cute story and pics. But. Is this a sponsored post? It hurts the credibility of the article to sell Sundays so hard without also mentioning other ideas or supplements….
Good morning! While a bit biased, I have to agree that our dogs are pretty darn cute – as is their story. As a family, we were blown away by the positive impact a companion had on our senior dog. And – yes, this is a sponsored post. We label all articles for our brand partners at the very top with our “sponsor banner”.