by Char Brooks, JD, Project Healthy Living Coach

Having a pet is one of life’s greatest joys. The playful ways pets adore their owners is simply priceless. Along with enjoying their fun antics comes the responsibility of caring for your pet as they age.

September is Senior Pet Wellness Month and this is a great time to learn about what it takes to take care of your older pet. Small cats and small dogs are considered an older pet when they reach 7 years old. If your dog is more than 45 pounds, they are considered an older pet when they reach 6 years of age.

Like people, older pets have different issues than younger pets. Just like seniors, regular pet screening examinations are important to maintain their health. Check with your veterinarian about the screenings that are appropriate for your pets.

A healthy body weight and appropriate exercise are also important to help your pets stay energetic and healthy. You too will benefit from keeping your pets healthy. As you exercise with them, you contribute to your own well being as well as theirs.

Your pet’s love you so much. Show them how much you care by making sure they get the professional care they need and having fun with them.

Char is a Project Healthy Living Coach and Attorney with Elder Law of Michigan. Char holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Michigan State University, and graduated with her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School over 30 years ago.

Prior to joining ELM, Char worked for Michigan Health and Hospital Association as an attorney representing 140 hospitals throughout the state of Michigan in unemployment compensation cases. Char has also received her certification as a Life Coach in 2004. Char is now teaching Project Healthy Living Classes in mid-Michigan and continues writing in various capacities for Elder Law of Michigan.