Leaving your pet in someone else’s care is never easy—but it’s especially tough when they’re in their senior years. Whether it’s your older Labrador who struggles with the stairs or your long-time feline friend who’s starting to slow down, these pets need a little more TLC when you’re not around.
At Pet Angel Sitters, we’ve looked after hundreds of senior cats and dogs across North Dublin, and we’ve learned that with the right approach, your older pet can feel safe, secure, and even spoiled while you’re away.
So if you’re planning a holiday or a weekend trip, here are some things we think every pet owner should know when it comes to senior care while you’re away.
🐶 What Older Pets Really Need
As pets get older, their needs shift. They sleep more, move slower, and don’t bounce back from changes as quickly. Some might have joint pain or need medication. Others might just need a little extra time and patience.
We often care for dogs who:
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Prefer shorter, slower walks
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Need a gentle hand up the step or into the garden
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Get a bit confused when their usual person isn’t home
Or cats who:
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Don’t groom themselves as well as they used to
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Have accidents near the litter tray
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Just want someone to sit quietly with them for 10 minutes
It’s not just about physical care—it’s about keeping them emotionally settled too.
📋 Routines Are Everything
Older pets love routine. They like meals at the same time. They nap in the same sunny spot. They know what the sound of your car means and when to expect the treat drawer to open.
So when we step in as your pet sitter, we stick as closely as we can to what they’re used to. We ask you in advance about:
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Meal times and quantities
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Medication needs
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Walking routes and preferred parks
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Personality quirks (do they bark at postmen? hate loud noises? love being brushed?)
We’re not just there to feed and walk—we’re there to make things feel normal in your absence.
💊 Medication? We’ve Got It Covered
A lot of our senior pet clients are on meds. Pills, powders, eye drops, injections—we’ve done it all. It can be a bit nerve-wracking leaving that responsibility to someone else, and we get that.
That’s why during your meet & greet, we take detailed notes. We double check instructions, ask for backup contact info, and make sure we’re 100% clear on what needs to happen and when.
We always keep a record of medication given and can send photo updates if you’d like extra peace of mind.
🐕 Walks at Their Speed
If your dog isn’t as sprightly as they used to be, no problem. We tailor walks to suit their ability—whether that’s a slow meander around the green or a short loop in the back garden.
No rushing. No pushing them beyond their comfort. We’re there to give them fresh air, a sniff of the world, and a bit of companionship.
🐈 Cats Need Company Too
There’s a common misconception that cats don’t really need anyone. But senior cats? They often do.
We’ve looked after plenty of older cats who become more affectionate—and more anxious—as they age. Some won’t eat properly if they’re feeling unsettled. Others stop grooming or start avoiding the litter tray.
Our daily visits help keep them grounded. A gentle brush, a clean litter tray, fresh food, and a bit of attention go a long way in keeping them calm while you’re away.
🛏 Comfort and Cleanliness
We’re not just there for the fun stuff, we keep your pet’s space clean and comfortable too. Older pets are more likely to have the odd accident, or maybe they struggle to get outside in time. That’s okay. We’re used to it.
We clean up gently and without fuss. We can also freshen bedding, tidy up feeding areas, and make sure your home stays pet-friendly while you’re away.
📸 Updates Straight to Your Phone
If you’re like most pet owners, you’ll want to know how they’re doing. That’s why we send little updates after every visit. A picture of your dog resting in the sun or your cat tucked into their bed can be a huge comfort when you’re away.
And if anything seems off, your dog isn’t eating as much, or your cat seems a bit slower—we’ll let you know right away and talk through the best next steps.
🏡 Why Staying at Home Is Best
Boarding kennels or catteries can be really stressful for senior pets. The noise, the new smells, the unfamiliar routines—it’s a lot to process, especially if their hearing or vision isn’t what it used to be.
That’s why we believe in-home care is the best option for older pets. They get to stay in familiar surroundings, with their own bed, toys, and scents. And you get the peace of mind knowing everything is happening on their terms.
✅ Book Early for Senior Pets
Senior pet sitting takes a bit more time and planning. We usually recommend booking ahead so we can schedule a longer meet & greet, learn all the details, and make sure your sitter is a great match.
We’re Garda-vetted, insured, and backed by years of experience. And we genuinely love what we do—especially the quiet, sweet moments that often come with older animals.
Thinking About a Trip?
If you’re planning a break and your cat or dog is starting to show their age, we’re here to help. With gentle, attentive care, your pet can stay safe, happy, and calm while you’re away.
