Your mom’s companion dog is everything to her. The problem is that her illness or disability is impacting the dog’s care. You know the dog is being neglected. Here are four signs to watch for.
The Dog Isn’t Being Fed Regularly
Your mom has dementia and forgets to feed the dog. Between visits, you find that the dog’s bowl is full of plain spaghetti. The bag or cans of dog food you purchased haven’t been opened. When you feed the dog, the dog wolfs his meal. It’s clear he hasn’t been fed regularly. He might be losing weight. She might be feeding him human foods that could harm him.
The Dog No Longer Gets Let Outside
Your dad’s mobility changed after a stroke. He no longer goes for walks. Given the accidents you’ve found in various places around the house, you don’t think the dog is going outside to relieve herself either. Dogs need opportunities for bathroom breaks outside. If that’s not happening, something must change.
The Dog’s Grooming Changes
You’ve noticed your mom’s dog’s coat is all matted and clumped. She’s not brushing her dog at all. Claws are not being trimmed regularly. The dog was always kept clean and groomed until recently. It’s a good sign that your mom isn’t offering the same level of care she once did.
The Dog Keeps Running Off
Your dad lets his dog outside into the yard and forgets to let the dog back in. You start getting calls from the animal control officer that the dog was roaming loose again. Each time you save the dog from the kennels, it’s another fine. The fines are adding up.
Try This Before You Remove the Dog
If it’s possible that your mom or dad could be prompted to take better care of the companion dog, try that first. Caregivers can help your parent with daily tasks. A caregiver could remind your mom to feed the dog and make sure your dad tosses a ball for the dog to chase inside the house.
Caregivers can help your parent with light housework and scheduled appointments with vets and groomers. With some encouragement and gentle reminders, your parent may be able to continue to care for the dog.
If that doesn’t work, someone needs to take the pet. A family member or friend is ideal. The pet could be taken to visit your mom or dad regularly. You could hire caregivers to drive your parent to another house to visit the dog. Call now to learn more.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elderly Care in Pleasant Hill, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
