Taking care of older pets

With Kate now on the other side of 14 years, I've been thinking more and more about how she's aging and what, if anything, I need to do for her.

An article in the St. Petersburg Times by veterinarian Tracy Acosta gives some tips all of us with older pets should be aware of.

Older pets have different veterinary and nutritional needs and can benefit greatly from specialized care, health testing and dietary planning. ... So, with good genes and excellent care, you can be sure that your pet's life will be a long and happy one.

Included in the article is such advice as:

• Providing steps or a ramp to allow your pet up on the bed or couch, if you actually allow them to do that.

• Make sure bedding is comfortable and washable (for those accidents).

• Keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated.

• Regular grooming and teeth brushing should be maintained.

We all know how I feel about grooming.