Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

7 Important Things to Consider When Getting a Pet Lizard

Rachel M.
by Rachel M.
Published:  September 12th, 2025

Lizards can make fascinating pets. With their unique personalities, vibrant colors, and intriguing behaviors, they’re a step away from the typical dog or cat.


But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s take a look at some key things to consider. 


Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Green chameleon - image via Canva

Table of contents

1. Choosing the Right Lizard

Not all lizards are created equal when it comes to pet ownership.


Popular beginner-friendly species include bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and crested geckos.


Bearded dragons are social and relatively easy to handle, leopard geckos are nocturnal and low-maintenance, and crested geckos thrive without live heat lamps.


Consider factors like size, lifespan, temperament, and care requirements. Some lizards, like iguanas, grow very large and require more commitment, while smaller species are easier to house and handle.

2. Housing Your Lizard

The right enclosure is crucial for your lizard’s health. Most lizards need a terrarium with plenty of space to move, climb, and hide. Glass tanks with secure lids are common, and some species benefit from vertical space for climbing.


Temperature and humidity are important too. Reptiles are cold-blooded, meaning they rely on external heat to regulate their body temperature.


A basking spot and cooler area in the tank help them thermoregulate. UVB lighting is also essential for many species to synthesize vitamin D3 and maintain healthy bones.

3. Feeding Your Lizard

Lizard diets vary widely depending on the species. Some are insectivores, some herbivores, and some omnivores.


Bearded dragons, for instance, enjoy a mix of vegetables, fruits, and insects, while leopard geckos primarily eat live insects.


Fresh water should always be available, and calcium and vitamin supplements may be necessary to prevent deficiencies. Researching your lizard’s natural diet is key to keeping it healthy.

Bearded dragon - image via Canva

4. Handling and Temperament

Lizards aren’t like cats or dogs. They won’t snuggle on your lap, but many can become accustomed to gentle handling.


Start slowly, letting your lizard get used to your presence before picking it up. Bearded dragons are generally tolerant of handling, whereas some skittish species may prefer minimal interaction.


Always wash your hands before and after handling to protect both you and your pet from bacteria like salmonella.

5. Health and Lifespan

A healthy lizard can live anywhere from 5 to 20 years depending on the species. Signs of good health include clear eyes, a healthy appetite, regular shedding, and active behavior.


Common health issues include metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites, often caused by improper diet, temperature, or humidity. Regular vet check-ups with a reptile-savvy vet are recommended.

Leopard gecko - image via Canva

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining a clean habitat is crucial. Spot-clean daily and do a deeper clean of the entire enclosure every one to two weeks. Replace substrate as needed and disinfect hides, water bowls, and decor to prevent bacterial build-up.

7. The Commitment

Owning a lizard is a long-term commitment. Unlike some pets, lizards may require specialized lighting, temperature control, and a diet that mimics their natural habitat.


But for those willing to invest the time and effort, they can be rewarding, low-noise companions with quirky personalities.

HERCOCCI Bearded Dragon Tank Accessories

Buy on Amazon See more options

CroBlissful Reptile Hide Cave Hollow Cave Hideout

Buy on Amazon See more options

Final Thoughts

Lizards may not purr or fetch, but their fascinating behaviors, vivid colors, and relatively low-maintenance lifestyle make them a unique pet choice.


With proper care, your scaly friend can thrive and even surprise you with its personality. 


Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here. 

WOW
Rachel M.
Rachel M.

More by Rachel M.

California Bans Cat Declawing
California Bans Cat Declawing
View Article
Next
Related articles
Louis the Cat Will Inspire You to Explore with Your Furry Friend!

In a world where our cats often spend their lives within the confines of the four walls of our homes, a remarkable cat named Louis is showing adventurous cat parents that there is a different way. This adventurous Persian, with his owners Dan Taylor and Jess Peters, made headlines last year for his hiking achievements as the first cat to climb all 3 British peaks. Now, he’s back to inspire others again after completing a new hiking challenge across the Peak and Lake Districts. While not every cat may be a natural-born hiker, his owners’ advice is a great starting point for anyone considering adventuring with their best friend. “Not all cats are adventurous, but Louis is one of them,” cat dad Dan Taylor explained. “If anyone feels like they have an adventurous cat living with them, they can start them off with small adventures to build them up and see how they do. Some cats are interested in doing things like this.” There are several things to consider before hitting the trail. First, ensure your cat is comfortable with a harness and a leash. Start by letting them wear it for short periods inside the house. Next, gradually introduce them to the outdoors in a quiet, safe space like your backyard. Once they’re comfortable, you can move to short walks in a low-traffic area. Always remember to prioritize your cat’s safety and comfort. Look for signs of stress and never force them into a situation they’re not ready for. Common signs of stress in cats include: Changes in appetiteDigestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, frequent vomiting)Accidents outside the litter boxOvergrooming (may result in skin irritation or bald spots) Excessive vocalization Increased aggression or irritability (hissing, scratching, biting)TremblingWithdrawal or attempting to hide Louis’ adventures have earned him quite a dedicated following on his Instagram account, @lordlouis_persian. The couple has also used his platform for good, launching a fundraiser to support Cats Protection and a film project for Jess’s novel. The fundraiser highlights his efforts to explore the Catbells Ridge Walk and The Great Ridge Walk to raise attention and funds for the care and rehoming efforts of the organization, changing the lives of rescue cats in need. While 50% of funds raised will go to Cats Protection, Louis’s efforts are also going to help his cat mom, Jess Peters, achieve a dream of her own. The other 50% of the funds will help bring her fantasy novel, Alchemy Academy, to the big screen with StormLightUK. This brave kitty and his many adventures serve as a powerful testament to the bond between a pet and their person. They show us that with patience, preparation, and a little bravery, we can share incredible experiences with our best furry friends. It’s a great way to enrich their lives and our own in the process. Louis is not just a hiking cat; he’s an inspiration to use all to step outside, explore, and create unforgettable memories with the pets we love so much! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Weird Things Your Cat Might Be Doing to Get Your Attention

Cats are often described as independent, but if you live with one, you know that’s not the whole story. When they want your attention, they can be surprisingly persistent—and sometimes a little weird about it. Here are a few common (and not-so-common) things your cat might do when they’re trying to get you to focus on them.

Designer Nods to Canine Influencers During New York Fashion Week 2025

Iconic gathering of the stylish and celebrated recognize the importance of dogs in our lives.

Are Agility Competitions in Your Dog's Future?

Think your little buddy has what it takes to compete with the best? Here's how you get started.

Why Can't My Cat Pee? Understanding Urinary Blockages

One of the most terrifying and often misunderstood emergencies that cat parents may encounter is a urinary blockage. It’s not just a simple accident outside the litter box or a minor discomfort when using the bathroom; it’s a critical, life-threatening situation that can escalate fast. That’s why it’s so important to be familiar with the urgent warning signs and know how to act quickly.This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the earliest clues to watch out for to steps you can take to prevent a urinary blockage from occurring in the first place. While we can’t promise you’ll never face this frightening condition, we ensure you have the information necessary to address the problem properly and give your best friend the best quality of life.What Exactly is a Urinary Blockage in Cats? Let’s start at the beginning. A cat urinary blockage is a condition that occurs when something blocks the urethra (the narrow tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). Picture a kink in a garden hose, preventing the water from flowing through. In a cat, this means urine backs up in the bladder, which can become painfully full and swollen. Not only does this cause a lot of discomfort, but it can also be incredibly dangerous when the bladder can’t empty. Toxins that would usually be flushed out in the urine begin to build up in the bloodstream. This can lead to kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances, and even potentially cause a bladder rupture. Any cat can experience a urinary blockage, but male cats are particularly at risk. This is due to their anatomy: a male cat’s urethra is much longer and narrower than a female’s, making it easier for even small obstructions to get lodged and cause a complete blockage. Watch Out for These Signs of TroubleYour cat’s litter box is often the first place you’ll notice a problem. Paying careful attention while cleaning their box can literally save their life! Some litter box-related warning signs include: Straining to Pee: This is the most common and critical sign. You might notice your cat is squatting repeatedly in the litter box, often for extended periods, but producing little to no urine. They may vocalize, cry out, or grunt while attempting to go. Frequent Trips to the Litter Box: Your cat might go in and out of the litter box multiple times within a short period, appearing anxious or restless, often without success.  Accidents Outside the Litter Box: If your cat, who is typically well litter-trained, suddenly starts peeing outside the box in places like the bathtub or on laundry, it’s likely not just “bad behavior.” These accidents are a sign of discomfort or a medical issue. Look for small puddles, even just drops, to identify that a urinary blockage could be responsible. Behavioral and Physical Warning SignsBeyond the litter box, a blocked cat will often show other signs of pain or distress, especially as the condition worsens. Here are a few changes to watch out for:  Vocalization: Your cat may be more talkative than usual, crying, howling, or meowing excessively, especially when attempting to use the litter box or if you touch their abdomen. This is a sign they are in pain. Restlessness or Hiding: A cat in pain may become restless, start pacing, or be unable to settle. On the other end of the spectrum, some cats will hide when feeling uncomfortable. Weakness or Loss of Energy: As toxins build up in their system, your cat will become lethargic, weak, and depressed. You may notice they lose interest in their favorite activities, play toys, or even physical interaction with their person (you). Abdominal Pain or Bloating: If you gently feel your cat’s lower abdomen (behind their hind legs), it may feel hard, firm, or bloated due to a full, painful bladder. Your cat will likely try to pull away or react negatively to being touched in this area. Vomiting and Loss of Appetite: These are later signs, indicating that toxins have built up to the point of significantly impacting their system. When a cat reaches this stage, they are experiencing serious medical complications. The “No Urine” Red Flag If your cat is straining repeatedly and producing no urine at all for several hours, this is a serious and life-threatening emergency. Do not wait! Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic immediately. What Causes Urinary Blockages? Urinary blockages are often part of a broader condition known as Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), an umbrella term used to describe several disorders that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. In many cases, the exact cause of FLUTD isn’t found. Experts say it is often a combination of contributing factors, including: Diet: Cats on an exclusively dry food diet often have lower water intake, leading to more concentrated urine, which can increase the risk of crystals forming. Diets high in certain minerals (like magnesium and phosphorus) can also increase the risk. Finally, diets that don’t promote an ideal urine pH may increase the risk of crystals and bladder stones. Water Intake: Dehydration is incredibly common in cats. This could be due to a dry food-only diet or a reluctance to drink enough water throughout the day. Stress: Environmental stress is a massive trigger for FLUTD flare-ups. Stress may be caused by changes in routine, new pets, changes to the family members in your home, household conflict, home renovations, or even a dirty litter box.  Obesity: Overweight cats may be at a higher risk for urinary issues. Genetics: Some individual cats or breeds (like Persians and Himalayans) may be genetically more likely to develop urinary problems.

FDA Approves Long-Lasting Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your calendar and panicking over a missed flea treatment, we’ve got news that might change your whole routine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a once-a-year flea and tick shot for dogs, and it’s already making waves in the pet world.The product, called Bravecto Quantum, is an injectable medication that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for a full 12 months. Yes, you read that right, one vet visit, and your dog is covered for an entire year.The long-acting shot contains fluralaner, the same active ingredient found in other Bravecto products, but this version is specially formulated for extended release. That means no more monthly chewables, no more oily spot-ons, and no more reminders you snooze and forget. Bravecto Quantum has been used in Australia and Europe, but as of July 2025, it’s now officially FDA-approved and set to become available in U.S. veterinary clinics this August.For busy pet parents, this new option could be a total game changer.“Year-round protection in one easy injection,” said Dr. Christine Royal, veterinarian and executive director at Merck Animal Health. “It’s a convenient and effective option that supports compliance and peace of mind.” And that peace of mind is something pet owners know can be hard to come by, especially when juggling a household, a job, and a dog who absolutely refuses to eat that monthly pill hidden in peanut butter.The shot protects against fleas and three major types of ticks - American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks - for 12 months. It also offers eight months of protection against lone star ticks, which are increasingly common in many U.S. regions.Bravecto Quantum is administered by a veterinarian, not something you can do at home, which is actually a plus. It guarantees proper dosing and gives you a reason to take your dog for an annual health check, which many vets recommend anyway.Like any medication, it’s not totally risk-free. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which the FDA has linked to neurological side effects such as tremors and seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of those conditions. Common side effects may include mild injection site discomfort or lethargy, but these are generally short-lived.Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says this long-acting option could be particularly helpful for certain pet families. “In areas where ticks are active year-round, or for owners who struggle to remember monthly treatments, having a once-a-year injection simplifies things considerably,” she noted.So what’s the upside of Bravecto Quantum for pet parents?For starters, it reduces the risk of gaps in protection. Skipping just one monthly dose can leave your dog vulnerable, not just to fleas, but to serious diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which are transmitted by ticks.It also means fewer products in your cabinet, fewer dosing errors, and let’s be honest, fewer wrestling matches with your dog on the kitchen floor.That said, it’s not a magic fix-all. You’ll still want to maintain a clean home environment, wash bedding regularly, and keep your yard tick-free. Flea and tick protection works best when it’s part of a bigger strategy.If your pup is six months or older and in good health, talk to your vet to see if the new shot might be right for them. It might just be the simplest way yet to keep them safe and give you one less thing to worry about for the next 365 days.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Poor Air Quality Impacts the Health of Pets, Too

Experts warn that poor air quality caused by wildfires can have serious effects on animals, so pet parents should be aware of the risks and take steps to protect their pets when air quality drops.  

Zeus the Maine Coon is the Size of a Child

Growing in popularity and in size, the long-haired Maine Coon proves to be a gentle giant with pet owners.

Determined Beagle Gets a Lift on Her Latest Hiking Adventure

Dogs love a good adventure. Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood, a trip to the local park, or a rustic hike, our best friends are usually eager to explore by our side. But sometimes, even the best-prepared pup can find themselves in a tricky situation… This was the case for one determined beagle who, despite being fully geared up for a hike, needed a little extra support from her loving dad. The heartwarming and humorous moment was captured on video and shared by user @beagleskiko. The now-viral TikTok shows the determined beagle being gently lifted by her own as they navigate the steep and rocky section of the trail. Hilariously, even while being carried, her little legs continued to move in a running motion. It’s a sight that has led to the laughter and love of TikTok viewers worldwide.

3 Fun Toys to Treat Your Pup to This Fall

Fall is the perfect season for cozy walks, pumpkin spice everything and, of course, spoiling your furry best friend with new toys. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, enjoying crisp autumn evenings, or just looking for ways to keep your dog engaged indoors, these playful picks are sure to bring tail wags all season long.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How Hot is Too Hot for Your Cat?

Summer is officially here, bringing longer days, beautiful sunshine, and that relaxed summer holiday atmosphere that we all look forward to. But while you’re busy enjoying the warmth, your cat may be dealing with a different experience. Unlike humans, cats aren’t efficient at regulating their body temperature, making them highly susceptible to overheating, even in temperatures that you may consider comfortable. As cat parents, it’s absolutely crucial that we understand the risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, learn to recognize the subtle warning signs, and be prepared to react appropriately. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how hot is too hot for cats, provide you with the information necessary to keep your cat safe, and share some practical tips for keeping them cool on even the hottest summer days. After all, we want them to enjoy their summer vacation, too! Understanding How Heat Affects Your Cat The first step in keeping your cat safe is understanding how their body responds to and interacts with heat, especially extreme heat, and why they are so vulnerable to overheating. When the temperatures climb, humans sweat to cool down. Our cats, however, have a harder time regulating their body temperature and staying comfortable. What is Considered Normal Cat Body Temperature? A healthy cat’s normal body temperature ranges between 100.4∘F and 102.5∘F (38∘C and 39.2∘C). This may seem a bit higher than expected because it’s higher than what is considered normal, but their bodies do generally run warmer. If your cat’s temperature rises beyond this range, their body has to work harder to cool it back down. If they are unable to get back to a healthy temperature quickly enough, they could face severe health conditions, such as heat exhaustion and ultimately, heat stroke. How Cats Regulate Temperature (And Why It’s Limited)While cats don’t sweat like people, there are a few natural ways they may try to cool themselves off. However, it’s essential that we recognize these methods of cooling and regulating body temperature are significantly less efficient, leaving them vulnerable to overheating. Panting: Dogs are known to pant heavily when they need to cool down. With cats, panting isn’t as common and usually means a more serious situation – they are highly stressed, in pain, or significantly overheating. If you see your cat panting, it’s a red flag. Sweating: Previously, I said that cats don’t sweat like humans, but they do have a few (very few) sweat glands. These are primarily found on their paw pads. You may occasionally see damp paw prints on a cool surface if your cat is hot, and they can help a tiny bit, but they aren’t effective as a major cooling strategy for the entire body. Grooming/Saliva Evaporation: Cats often groom themselves when they’re feeling overheated. As the saliva evaporates from their fur, it offers an evaporative cooling effect, similar to how sweat evaporating off our skin cools us. Seeking Shade/Cool Surfaces: The most common way a cat will try to cool down is by seeking out a shaded, cool environment. For example, they may try stretching out on a cool tile or hardwood floor. While this helps, it’s often not enough in truly hot temperatures. So, How Hot is Too Hot for Cats? There isn’t a single “magic number” that makes an environment too hot for every cat. Instead, there are many different individual factors that will play a role. However, a general rule of thumb is that temperatures of 80°F (26.7°C) and higher are considered risky for most cats. This is especially true if combined with these risk factors: High Humidity: This makes it harder for evaporative cooling methods (such as panting and saliva evaporation) to work effectively, trapping heat in the body. A 70°F day with high humidity can be more dangerous than an 80°F day with low humidity.Enclosed Spaces: When discussing this topic, we typically refer to the life-threatening risk of leaving a cat in a parked car. Even for “just a minute” with the windows cracked, the temperatures inside can rise quickly turning the vehicle into an oven. But this also applies to unventilated rooms, sunrooms, or carriers left in direct sunlight. Individual Sensitivity: Just like people, some cats are going to be more susceptible to heat than others. This is why it’s so important for cat parent to get to know their cats, their usual behaviors, and their comfort levels. Is Your Cat at High Risk for Heat Exhaustion?While any cat can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, there are some that are at a significantly higher risk of overheating. Consider whether your cat fits into any of the following high-risk groups: Age: Very young kittens and senior cats are less efficient at regulating their body temperatures, making them more susceptible to extreme temperatures. Brachycephalic (Flat-Faced) Breeds: Cat breeds with flatter faces, like Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, are particularly susceptible to overheating. Their facial structure means they have shortened airways, making it more difficult for them to breathe efficiently, which in turn makes it harder for them to cool themselves through panting. Coat Types: A dense coat can offer some insulation against heat. However, long-haired or dense-coated cats can struggle more in high temperatures, especially if their undercoat isn’t regularly groomed out. Activity Level: Overly active or playful cats are at risk of pushing themselves too hard in a hot environment, which can cause their internal temperature to rise. Health Conditions: Cats with underlying health issues, such as heart disease, respiratory problems (like asthma), obesity, or arthritis (which limits their ability to move to cooler spots), are at an increased risk. If your cat falls into any one (or multiple) of these high-risk categories, knowledge is power. Recognizing that they are more vulnerable to overheating is the first step in taking the steps necessary to keep them safe and healthy.

Simple Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Car

Whether you’re setting off on a pet-friendly vacation or just heading to the vet, keeping your furry friends safe in the car takes a bit of extra planning. A few simple precautions can prevent accidents and ensure they stay comfortable and relaxed throughout the journey.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Toys Your Cat Will Love

Cats are curious, energetic creatures that need both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If you're looking to spoil your feline friend or just want to keep them entertained while you're busy, here are five highly-rated toys that cats (and their humans) rave about.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

5 Bathroom Items To Always Keep Away From Your Pets

Bathrooms can be full of hidden hazards for our pets. Curious cats and dogs can easily get into things that could make them sick, or worse, if left within reach. Here are five common bathroom items you should always keep away from your furry friends.Please note that this isn’t an exhaustive list, just a few key items to be aware of.

Gassy Dogs Go Viral on Social Media... But No So Funny to Live With

(photo credit: kukurund / shutterstock.com)Okay, I agree those gassy dog videos on sites like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok can be pretty funny to watch. And clearly, the pet owner finds their dog’s flatulence to have a certain entertainment value, hence their determination to wait, watch, record and then post the big event. Viewers love it… so what’s the problem?While those noisy outbursts are to be expected from time to time with any pooch, it should be a bit more of a concern if your dog’s gassiness can empty a room on a regular basis. In fact, it might require you to consider changing up his lifestyle. While he will no longer be that frequent-tooting media sensation, he may be healthier and a heck of a lot more comfortable.Identify the Cause / Eliminate the GassinessNow, you may be surprised to learn that a dog will typically pass gas between 15 and 20 times a day. For the most part, it’s silent and odorless, with only the odd one actually making it to Insta-worthy status. But if you find his flatulence is chronic and more “pronounced,” it may be time to explore potential causes and solutions, particularly if this is a new behavior that’s taking place more frequently versus just once or twice every few days.Potential causes of heavy flatulence (meaning it’s frequent, audible and seriously smelly) can include any or all of the following:

How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Ticks This Summer

When the sun is shining and the trails are calling, nothing beats outdoor adventures with your pup. But as fun as nature walks, dog park visits, and backyard playtime can be, they also bring a hidden danger: ticks. These tiny parasites latch onto dogs (and humans!) to feed on their blood. They can transmit serious illnesses like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.Here’s a comprehensive guide to tick prevention and protection every pet parent should follow.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Your Dog Will Love These Easy DIY Pumpkin Oat Treats

Looking for a healthy, no-fuss dog treat that’s gentle on your pup’s tummy? These DIY pumpkin oat dog treats are the perfect solution. Made with just a few pantry staples, they’re quick to whip up and packed with fiber, flavor, and tail-wagging goodness.

Creative Ways to Adapt Your Home for Your Senior Dog

Our dogs are family, and watching them transition into their golden years is truly a privilege, but it’s also undeniably bittersweet. We want nothing more than to ensure their remaining time is filled with comfort, joy, and peace. However, this new chapter of their lives introduces potential challenges, such as stiffness, less table footing, and perhaps a bit of confusion. This is where we step in.We have the power to make their home environment not just safe, but a true sanctuary for them as they navigate the changes that come with aging. You don’t need a full renovation; just a strategy focusing on smaller, targeted changes that address key concerns, like mobility, failing vision, temperature sensitivity, and overall safety.  This guide will help you identify creative, practical, and highly effective ways you can adapt your home to your pup’s changing needs.Mobility and Joint ComfortFor many senior dogs, the first noticeable sign of aging is a change in how they move. Arthritis, joint stiffness, and muscle weakness can all make moving through their once familiar and comfortable home into a painful obstacle course. Minor changes throughout your home can help to restore your dog’s confidence and prevent strain and injury. Traction Solutions Hardwood, tile, and laminate floors are comfortable for us, but they can be terrifying for a dog with achy, painful joints. The slippery surfaces force them to splay their legs, putting extreme stress on their hips and knees just to stand up. A single slip on any surface could cause a serious injury. Consider placing floor runners and area rugs in strategic places throughout your home. You don’t need to carpet the entire house; just focus on creating a “traction highway” in high-traffic areas. For example, place non-slip rugs along the path from their bed to the front door, from the living room to their food bowls, and around any area where they frequently hang out or stand up. For my senior girl, Daviana, this included creating a pathway into my home office where she would accompany me during my workday. Even a basic plush rug can be a hazard if it slides out from under them. If your favourite rug isn’t non-slip, consider using a rubber or specialized anti-slip rug pad underneath to give it that extra traction boost. Are new rugs throughout your house out of your budget? Rugs can be expensive! A budget-friendly solution is to place yoga mats in the key areas where traction is needed. Finally, take a moment to consider your dog’s paws and paw pads. Keep the fur between the paw pads neatly trimmed if your pup lets you handle them. Long hair here reduces their natural grip. You can also use paw wax or dog-specific traction socks with rubber grips to help them navigate slick floors more effectively. Ramps and Steps Gone are the days when your dog effortlessly dove onto the couch or flew up the steps with ease. Why? Jumping, especially the sudden impact of jumping down, can be really hard on stiff joints. Eventually, the pain becomes too much, and your dog must make the difficult decision to give up these once-enjoyable experiences. But that doesn’t have to be the case! You can help your pup navigate the same pathways without the strain. For accessing furniture or getting in and out of the car, a low-incline pet ramp is generally safer and easier on the joints than pet stairs. There are adjustable and aesthetic options to suit your home, as well as compact, travel-friendly ramps for your car.  If your senior dog is no longer able to navigate a full set of stairs in your house, you need to block their access entirely. This could be done by closing a door to block a portion of your home, if possible, or by using a safety gate directly at the stairs themselves. If your senior pup must access another floor, a lifting harness may be necessary. This requires physical effort from you and should only be done if the pathway is clear. Elevated Food and Water Bowls When it comes to mealtime, consider switching to elevated food and water bowls. This simple change keeps their head at a comfortable level, reducing the need to strain their neck, shoulder, and pack while they eat and drink. You can purchase a raised feeder, or for a more budget-friendly solution, consider placing your dog’s dishes on a cardboard box and cutting a hole to hold the dish securely in place. Orthopedic Bedding Your senior dog will spend more time resting during this stage of their life than they have ever before. Their old plush bed is no longer enough. If they sink into the overly soft bed, it can lead to stress on pressure points and uncomfortable sleeping positions, making their already stiff, sore joints even more painful. Instead, they need more targeted support. A high-quality orthopedic or memory foam bed is the single best investment you can make for your dog’s joint comfort. It contours to their body, evenly distributing weight and relieving pressure points, while still creating a cozy place to rest. This means less pain and better sleep. Look for a bed that is low to the ground or has a low entry point so your dog doesn’t have to step up or over a barrier to get in. Place several comfortable beds strategically throughout the house in the areas where your pup spends most of their time. This could include near their food dish, beside your favorite chair, or in a quiet corner. This will ensure they are never far from a comfortable resting place, especially when they feel tired, and won’t be tempted to strain themselves by walking long distances to take a much-needed rest.

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2025  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.