At Arms of Aloha we believe that when pet parents are given the education and support they need, their beloved companions can spend their final months, weeks, days and moments with the peace and dignity they deserve.

Get all the basics and more with our free Senior Pet Care Toolkit.

Pain

Updated pain management guidelines for dogs and cats (2022) – AAHA has released updated guidelines for the first time since 2014. Summary and link to the report

Arthritis pain in cats – cats are notoriously stoic, and arthritis is often missed in our older feline companions. Here are some pointers for spotting the signs

Arthritis basics – an overview of treatment options

Quality of life issues

Defining and (attempting to) quantify quality of life – here’s some guidance

Arrgh fleas – this may seem like a small thing but can be a big deal to an itchy pet. This is also a good reminder that Dr. Naun is not perfect

Cognitive and emotional well-being

Cognitive dysfunction in pets – how to spot it and what to do

Treating anxiety without drugs – options to try in addition to, or instead of, medications

Pets and Halloween – Halloween is super fun but can be stressful for pets. Here are some tips

Mobility

Modifying the environment – ways to make life easier on a mobility impaired pet (and you!)

Decision making

Family needs and practical considerations – have you thought about these factors when making end of life decisions for your beloved companion?

Your pet’s needs – breaking it down in to physical, social, and emotional components to help you make more informed choices

How to decide on diagnostic testing – when the “right” answer isn’t obvious, here’s a framework for deciding what tests to do

Practical matters

Safety tips for senior pets – take a fresh look for hazards and obstacles

Giving medications – what to do if you’re struggling

Hygiene for comfort care – with certain medical conditions it’s important to pay attention to hygiene. Here’s what you can do

Supplements: be a savvy consumer – supplements can help but buyer beware

The scoop on nutritional supplements for arthritis – common questions, identifying a quality supplement, and a discussion of which supplements may actually help your pet

Planning for the unexpected when you’re away – traveling can be stressful when your pet is seriously ill. Here’s help

End of life – wisdom and advice

What to know about end of life care. (Almost) everything we wish everyone knew.

  • Part 1: when your pet is still healthy – it’s never too soon to think about what’s important
  • Part 2: you just learned your loved one is incurably ill. Now what?
  • Part 3: planning for the final days, decision making, and more
  • Part 4: grieving and bereavement after the death of a beloved companion

Grief and bereavement

End of life care part IV: grief and bereavement

Helping children through the loss of a pet

Activities for kids to honor a beloved pet’s memory – ideas from our Chaplain, Marianne

Everything else

This over the counter pain medication can be dangerous – always check with your vet before giving OTC medications!