Grantline Veterinary Hospital has been honored to serve our community, providing compassionate care for your pets. It is with a heavy heart that we must announce that our practice must temporarily close, effective December 22nd. The nationwide labor shortage has hit the veterinary industry hard, and we are unable to keep our hospital open without a doctor on site.

While we are actively recruiting for a new veterinarian, we cannot provide medical treatment or authorize prescription refills without a provider onsite. However, our phone lines will remain open to help you. If you need medical care in our absence, we can assist in referring you to another hospital and transferring your pet’s medical records there.

While we cannot provide a timeline for reopening at this time, we want to thank you for the trust you have placed in Grantline Veterinary Hospital over the years, and we hope to see you again soon!

5 Ways to Help Your Senior Pet Remain Mobile

As your pet ages, they likely will experience stiff, achy joints caused by osteoarthritis. Fortunately, you have many options to help keep your senior pet active and mobile throughout their golden years. Give the following methods a try.

#1: Add traction to slick surfaces

Your polished hardwood floor’s beauty is lost on your senior pet as they slip and slide across the slick surface. Provide traction by putting carpet runners or yoga mats down to create pathways for your pet to move around your house. 

#2: Position ramps or stairs next to furniture

Jumping on or off furniture puts a great deal of stress on sore joints, so make it easy for your pet to climb up to their favorite resting spot with stairs or ramps. Ensure these aids are sturdy and stable to prevent your pet from falling.

#3: Apply traction aids to paws

To help your four-legged friend gain traction on slippery surfaces, apply traction aids to their paws and nails. Toe grips can help dogs grab onto slick floors better, while a specialized product can coat your pet’s paw pads to provide traction. You also can outfit your pet in non-slip booties. 

#4: Use a harness or sling

Large dogs may struggle to get their hind legs under them when first rising, but you may find it difficult or awkward to help pick them up. Prevent potential pain and flailing by using a specially designed harness or sling to help support your dog’s hind end as they get their paws under them.

#5: Elevate your pet’s food and water dishes

Many older pets develop osteoarthritis in their elbows, making it painful to crouch down to reach their food or water. Help your pet out by raising their food and water bowls to a comfortable level to prevent needless bending. 

Senior pets suffering from osteoarthritis or other musculoskeletal issues can benefit from joint and mobility supplements, in addition to anti-inflammatories and pain medications. See if your pet would benefit from supplements or medications by scheduling an appointment with our team.