SENIOR DOG MOBILITY PROGRAM
Helping Senior Dogs Stay Mobile And Comfortable
As dogs age, it’s common to see changes in their movement, strength, and comfort levels. You may notice your dog becoming slower on walks, struggling with stairs, or hesitating to jump in the car. Contributing factors may include sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), osteoarthritis, reduced proprioception, compensatory soft tissue strain and other conditions.
At Paws4Paws, we specialise in gentle, evidence-based therapy to support senior dogs. Our mobile service means your dog receives treatment in the comfort of their own home, where they’re most relaxed.
We use a combination of manual therapy to ease tight or sore areas, therapeutic exercises to build strength and stability, and laser therapy (PBMT) to reduce inflammation and support joint health. Each program is tailored to your dog’s individual needs, helping them maintain mobility, independence, and a good quality of life.
If your older dog is slowing down, we’re here to help keep them moving safely and comfortably for as long as possible.
Early Signs Of Mobility Changes in Senior Dogs
Mobility issues in senior dogs often develop gradually, and early signs can be subtle. Intervention at this stage can help slow the progression of physical decline and support improved long-term function and comfort.
Some early changes to look out for include:
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Slower movements on walks
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Mild stiffness after rest that resolves with movement
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Shifting weight or altered posture when standing
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Slight difficulty or hesitation to jump on the couch or into the car
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Muscle loss, especially around the hind limbs
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A wider stance when stationary
Addressing these changes early—before your dog begins struggling with stairs or rising from rest—allows us to build strength, preserve joint health, and reduce compensatory strain. Our goal is to support ageing proactively, keeping your dog mobile, comfortable, and independent for as long as possible.
Our Approach To Supporting Mobility in Senior Dogs
At Paws4Paws, we take a proactive and evidence-informed approach to managing mobility changes in senior dogs. Every dog begins with a comprehensive functional assessment to evaluate gait, posture, muscle condition, joint range of motion, and compensatory movement patterns.
Treatment plans are tailored to the individual dog’s needs, presentation, and comfort level. Sessions typically include manual therapy techniques to reduce soft tissue tension, improve comfort, and address compensatory strain. Therapeutic exercises are prescribed to improve strength, balance, and coordination, with careful progression based on the dog’s tolerance and response.
Where clinically indicated, we may also incorporate laser therapy to support joint health and help manage chronic inflammation. Owners are provided with a customised home exercise program to continue therapeutic gains between sessions and reinforce progress. We also offer guidance on home modifications and practical strategies to promote safety and support day-to-day mobility.
Our goal is to support ageing dogs by maintaining mobility, enhancing comfort, and preserving their ability to participate in daily life.
Results You Can Expect
While every dog presents with unique needs and goals, our focus is always on improving quality of life through meaningful, functional change. With consistent therapy and owner involvement, many senior dogs experience:
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Improved comfort and reduced stiffness
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Increased strength and stability, particularly in the hind limbs
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Greater confidence with movement and reduced hesitation
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Slower progression of age-related physical decline
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Enhanced participation in daily activities, such as walks, play, and family interaction
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A better understanding of how to support their ongoing needs at home
Outcomes depend on each dog’s baseline condition, overall health, and how early intervention begins. Our aim is not just to manage decline, but to actively support and maintain mobility for as long as possible.