Senior dogs, usually from around seven or eight years old (earlier for large breeds), often still love a change of scene. They just need the trip planned around them.
What changes with age
- Joints: jumping into a car, slippery floors and long periods in one position become uncomfortable.
- Bladder: older dogs need toilet breaks more often.
- Temperature: seniors handle heat and cold less well.
- Senses: reduced sight or hearing makes new places more confusing.
- Health conditions: heart, kidney or joint problems may need a vet's view before travel.
Before you go
- See your vet, especially for a long trip. Ask about pain relief for stiff joints, and whether travel is advisable.
- Pack medications for every day plus extra, in their original packs.
- Choose a closer destination. Two to three hours is easier than six.
- Pick a ground-floor room at your stay. Stairs are hard for older dogs.
On the road
- Help them in and out. Lift, or use a ramp. Do not let them jump.
- Soft, thick bedding on the seat or floor.
- Stops every one and a half to two hours for a toilet break and gentle walk.
- Keep the car cool. Seniors overheat faster.
- Keep their routine: meals and medication at the usual times.
At the destination
- Lay out their bed, water and food in a quiet corner.
- Put a rug on slippery floors where they will walk.
- Let them rest. A senior dog's holiday is mostly naps somewhere new.
When to stay home
If your dog is unwell, in pain that is not controlled, very anxious in new places, or your vet advises against it, a calm home-style stay may be kinder. For cats, see Mylopaws Homes.
A gentler ride
Mylopaws Travel drivers help lift older dogs in and out, drive gently, and stop when your dog needs a break.