November marks National Senior Pet Month — a time dedicated to recognising and celebrating the love, loyalty, and wisdom of our senior dogs. It’s also a chance to raise awareness for the many senior rescue dogs still waiting for homes.

At Scrappy to the Rescue®, we’re passionate about senior dog care and helping older pups live their happiest, healthiest years. That’s why every purchase supports dog rescue organisations across the UK — giving senior rescues a second chance at life.

Why National Senior Pet Month Matters

Senior dogs often get overlooked in shelters, but they have endless love to give. National Senior Pet Month reminds us that older dogs deserve the same care, attention, and compassion as younger ones.

As the RSPCA explains, senior dogs benefit from regular vet visits, gentle exercise, and comfortable environments. For senior rescue dogs, stability, patience, and love can transform their golden years.

This month is the perfect time to slow down, snuggle up, and reflect on what makes caring for older dogs so rewarding.

5 Essential Senior Dog Care Tips

1. Schedule Regular Vet Visits

Frequent check-ups are vital for senior dog health. As dogs age, early detection of arthritis, dental issues, or hearing loss can dramatically improve quality of life.
Quick tips:

• Book a vet check-up every six months.
• Monitor appetite, energy, and sleep changes.
• Stay up to date with vaccinations and dental care.

2. Gentle, Consistent Exercise

Exercise is an important part of senior dog care, but routines should be gentler. The Dogs Trust recommends slow walks and enriching “sniffaris” to keep joints mobile.

• Two shorter walks per day.
• Soft surfaces or grassy paths.
• Hydrotherapy for joint support.

3. Nutrition for Senior Dogs

A balanced diet is key to caring for older dogs. They need fewer calories but higher-quality protein to maintain muscle strength.
Consider:

• Switching to a vet-recommended senior formula.
• Adding omega-3s or joint supplements.
• Feeding smaller, more frequent meals.

4. Comfort at Home

Making simple adjustments at home is a huge part of senior dog care.
Simple upgrades:

• Orthopaedic beds for sore joints.
• Non-slip mats or ramps to prevent injury.
• Easy access to food and water bowls.

5. Mental Enrichment

Keeping your dog’s mind sharp is just as important as physical health. The Blue Cross offers great enrichment ideas for older dogs.

• Food puzzles or snuffle mats.
• Gentle scent games.
• Predictable, calm routines.

Adopting During National Senior Pet Month

National Senior Pet Month is the perfect time to consider adopting or fostering a senior dog. Many senior rescues end up in shelters through no fault of their own. With patience and kindness, they make the most devoted companions.

As Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
 says, “Older dogs may need a little extra care, but they have a lifetime of love to give.”

• Before adopting a senior rescue dog:
• Ask about any medical or dietary needs.
• Prepare soft bedding and safe spaces.
• Be gentle — they may take time to trust again.
• Focus on quality of life and comfort.

At Scrappy to the Rescue, we proudly donate a portion of profits to senior-dog rescues that care for older pups needing warmth, food, and love. Supporting them is our way of honouring the message behind National Senior Pet Month all year long.

The Golden Years Matter

National Senior Pet Month is more than a celebration — it’s a reminder to slow down and cherish the loyal companions who’ve stood by us through every chapter. Senior dogs may move a little slower, but their hearts are as full as ever.

At Scrappy to the Rescue® , every purchase supports dog rescues, helping more tails keep wagging into their golden years.

Explore our plant-powered, cruelty-free dog care essentials, where every product gives back to senior rescue dogs in need.