Want to Make a Bucket List for Your Dog? Consider these 5 Things First

We’ve all seen them. The stories of dogs taken on big adventures after being given a terminal diagnosis, usually cancer. Road trips, ocean swims, extravagant meals and even doggie weddings! 

I know their intentions are good and these dogs are loved, but the hospice veterinarian in me often cringes when I hear about these excursions. Why? Most seriously ill dogs, like we humans, would prefer to be home, or at least in familiar spaces. I find myself asking, whose bucket list is this, really?

Wanting to give your dog their best last days is natural and loving. But let’s make sure their experience is designed for them. Read on to find out what five things you should consider when making a bucket list for your dog.

5 Things to Consider When Making a Bucket List for Your Dog

1. Old pastimes may no longer be enjoyable for an ill or aged dog. 

   It’s easy to focus on all the things your dog loved in the past, but that may not be appropriate for them today, at this moment.
   
   The dog that is nauseous from late stage kidney failure might not appreciate that cheeseburger like they would devour in the past. The dog with a bone cancer diagnosis may find all but the simplest physical activity painful and tiring. The dog with dementia might be confused or frightened in any space other than home.
   
   Think about what makes your dog most happy, relaxed, and comfortable now, and plan a day built around those things.
   

2. Staying close to home is safest for most older or ill dogs.

   The best time to go on a big adventure with your dog is before they are ill or very advanced in age. Don’t wait until the fear of losing them makes you try to pack every moment full of experience.
   
   If your dog is quite old or has trouble moving around, think about keeping the excursions on your bucket list close to home.
   
   Aging, arthritis, and loss of muscle mass can make balancing in the car, or even getting into the car, difficult for most dogs. Dogs that used to enjoy a dip in the pool may now be at risk for drowning. Anxiety disorders senior dogs can also make car trips scary, and activities that used to bring joy may no longer be safe for your pet.
   
   Instead, keep your bucket list items close to home and easy to get to. Listen to your dog and assess their willingness as well as their safety when making plans.
   

3. You can modify the activities that they used to love. 
   
   Even if your dog is limited by age or health, you can help them enjoy their old favorite activities with a modification.
   
   Instead of a rousing game of Chuck It in the backyard, consider a tamer game of short throws, or rolling the ball in the house. Take a slow hike and allow them to do as much sniffing and sitting observation as they like. A dog stroller or wagon can be used to explore when a dog has very limited mobility. A trip to the dog park or a favorite beach can be just as fun while sitting and observing.
   

4. Consider hosting an open house or party. 
   
   Give your dog’s favorite friends (human and canine) a chance to drop in for a visit. You might be surprised by the number of people that would love a chance to say goodbye. The distraction of good company can be a wonderful thing. Make sure they have a quiet room or bed to retreat to if they tire.
   

5. Consider a session with a professional pet photographer. 

   We all have hundreds (thousands?) of photos of our pups on our phones, but a pet photographer can often capture our relationship with them in a really meaningful way. Book a location shoot for elderly and terminally ill pets and your family and you’re sure to create magical, lasting memories.
   
   Many pet photographers around the country are starting to offer sessions like these. If you’re in the Minneapolis area, reach out to photographer Sarah Ernhart for her Joy Sessions®.

One last consideration

After decades of working with aged and ill pets, I don’t think our dogs leave this world with regrets. What matters most to your dog is you. 

If you’re concerned about your pet’s quality of life, or would like help coming up with safe and comfortable bucket list ideas to share with your dog, book a quality of life consultation. We’ll discuss your pet’s condition, personality, and ability levels to help you determine how to enjoy a special moment together.