Macy Moore
Owner, MoorePetLove · Oakville, ON
Senior dogs hold a special place in my heart. There's something about an old dog — the grey muzzle, the slower pace, the absolute wisdom in their eyes — that just gets me every time. They also have specific needs when it comes to boarding, and it's worth thinking through carefully before you book.
One of the biggest challenges for senior dogs in standard boarding environments is the energy level and noise. A room full of young, rowdy dogs is exhausting and stressful for an older dog who just wants to nap on a soft surface. Senior dogs need a calm environment — not constant stimulation. This is one of the key reasons a small-group home boarding setup tends to work so much better for older dogs.
Many senior dogs are on some form of daily medication — joint supplements, heart medication, thyroid medication, and more. You need a boarder who will actually administer these correctly and on schedule, not just sort of remember. Ask specifically: do you have experience giving medications? What's your system for tracking it? I keep a written log for every medicated dog and follow the owner's instructions exactly.
An older dog with arthritis or joint pain needs a soft, supportive sleeping surface — not a concrete run floor or a thin mat. They often also need help getting on and off elevated surfaces. At home, your senior dog probably has their spot. The closer a boarding environment can replicate that comfort, the better.
Senior dogs can experience something called canine cognitive dysfunction — essentially a dog version of dementia. These dogs can get confused or disoriented more easily in new environments. If your dog is showing signs of cognitive changes, mention it to your boarder so they can be prepared for nighttime restlessness, confusion, or anxiety that might otherwise seem unusual.
With the right environment, senior dogs board just beautifully. I've had elderly dogs who slept in my bed with me every night of their stay and were perfectly content. It's all about finding the right fit — calm, comfortable, and caring.
I've cared for senior dogs with all kinds of needs — including dogs on multiple medications and dogs with mobility challenges. Let's meet and talk about what your old soul needs.