5 Bucket List Activities to Do With Your Aging Pet

July 5, 2023

It’s no secret I adore older pets. The gray muzzles, the way they walk, the way they become so much gentler and calmer just gets me every time. And, whether or not your aging dog is still going strong, senior pet life should celebrate your time together and give you amazing memories or things to look forward to.

Bucket lists can be a really fun and engaging way to enjoy your time together, create more memories and preserve them. But here’s the key - the bucket list for an aging dog should improve both yours and their quality of life.

Typically bucket lists are filled with fun and adventurous things like climbing a mountain, going somewhere you haven't been before or doing something spontanous like skydiving. And while some people might do these things with their pet, they can be too much for an aging pet.

Maybe you always wanted to jog along a popular dog beach in your country but your dog has arthritis. You can still visit the beach but instead of jogging, watch the sunset together.

When making your bucket list or picking things off your list, consider:

When making your bucket list or selecting activities for your pet, it's important to consider their mobility, which may change as they age. Take into account their physical limitations and choose activities that accommodate their needs and abilities, ensuring they can fully enjoy the experience.

Additionally, it's crucial to factor in your pet's temperament when planning their bucket list. Cater the activities to their preferences, providing them with choices whenever possible. Remember not to force your pet into something they don't enjoy, as it's essential to respect their individual preferences and comfort levels.

Moreover, it's crucial for pet parents to be conscious of their pet's overall health when considering bucket list activities. Assess their general well-being, including factors like skin condition and cracks in their paws, to determine if they are fit for the proposed activities. Ensuring their overall health is in good condition will help guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for your furry friend.

The bucket list is ways to improve their quality of life and to share special moments together as they age. Let your pet guide you on what they can and cannot do!

Without further ado, here are some fun and interative activities to try with your aging dog!

1. A Pet Photography Session. A professional photo session is not only a cute experience, it also will help you feel close to your pet once they cross the rainbow bridge. I cherish these moments with them as it's a constant reminder of the love you have for them when looking at those memories. Having pictures enlarged and framed to relive great memories is a fun way to style your home, and preserve them for years to come.

2. A Bougie Feast. A paw-licking feast is a great way to show your pet love. Gizelle, a gentle Mastiff, traveled to Maine to eat fresh lobster and donuts. Be sure to consider your dog's health here and consult a medical professional before feeding anything new, but a special meal, especially photographed, can be a great memory-builder. I like to give my dog something special on their birthday that they don't get everyday so they can get excited and feel extra special for the day.

Just be sure - Check in with your vet if you’re in doubt!

3. Go for a Weekend at a Fancy Pet-Friendly Hotel or Airbnb. Enjoying a drink on the veranda or getting a human massage, and then giving your senior pet one—you two can spend a luxurious weekend sharing special moments. Be sure to look up some local hotels in your area to see which one's allow you to bring your dog along.

4. Spend a Day Letting Them be the Boss. Can you give your pet total control for the day? Pick a special day and let them do what they want. I know if I let my dog do this for a day, first thing they would do is eat as much food as they could until they fell over, play fetch all day long until they passed out and probably get into trouble atleast once but technically they would get a freebie if they did haha.

5. Camp Out for A Cuddle Fest in The Living Room. Move a mattress downstairs or wherever is comfy for them and chill out. You could watch movies, cuddle all day, pet them, give them belly rubs and lots of kisses. They would absolutely love it, plus it will give you some extra bonding time with your pup too.