It happens slowly and all at once—that frisky puppy or kitten you raised starts to look a little grizzled, nap a little more, or seem hesitant to leap into bed after years of it being their sweet, steady routine.Changes like this are natural as pets age, and your pet’s golden years can be a beautiful time if you’re thoughtful about keeping them safe, healthy and comfortable. Here are a few simple strategies worth considering to care for your senior dog or cat.Home environmentSenior pets experience many of the same age-related health concerns as people do: arthritis, reduced motor and cognitive skills, balance problems, hearing loss and vision impairment. Watch your pet as they navigate their day to see where they might need extra support. Make larger changes early, to reduce stress and confusion for older pets.Older dogs especially may get anxious about slippery surfaces like hardwood and linoleum floors. To help them get traction and avoid a fall, consider adding brightly patterned non-slip rugs or runners to the areas they use the most, especially leading to their food, bed and other essential areas.Consider purchasing pet ramps to help older pets access their favorite napping spot, litter box or your car for outdoor adventures. Raise their food bowls to a more comfortable height, and consider orthopedic pet beds that offer more support for their joints.Create a sanctuary space for your pet—somewhere safe and cozy, close to a wall or corner and away from noise and chaos. Pets grow increasingly sensitive to cold as they age, so keep your house or their retreat at a comfortable temperature.Don’t forget that as a Wagmo Wellness member, you can use your Wagmo Perks for discounts on pet brands like Fable to make your pet’s space more comfortable.Mental &amp; physical activityWhile senior pets may not need as much exercise as they did in their carefree youth, daily exercise is vital to retaining their mobility, preventing obesity and boosting their cognitive and emotional well-being. Take senior dogs on gentle but regular walks, and give senior cats stimulating toys like laser points, wands and balls to bat back and forth. If you do notice signs of arthritis or other joint dysfunction, consult your veterinarian about medications to make them more comfortable.DietLook for foods that are specially formulated for senior pets’ slower metabolism; obesity can significantly increase risk factors for life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. You may also consider softer foods that are easier on the teeth. See a vet right away if your pet shows a sudden change in appetite or bodyweight.ImmunityOlder pets tend to have weaker immune systems, making it more important than ever to keep up the flea, tick and heartworm protection as well as any vet-recommended vaccines.More frequent vet visitsRegular veterinary visits are important at every age to help catch critical health issues before they become life-threatening. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends taking senior pets to see a veterinarian at least twice a year, so signs of illness or other problems can be found and treated early. Senior pet exams are often more thorough and may include more bloodwork, urinalysis, dental care and thyroid testing than wellness check-ups for younger pets.Wagmo offers three tiers of Wellness plans that reimburse you for the cost of preventative care—you many want to consider upping your protection as your pet gets older to include more office visits, vaccines, screening tests, dental care and pest protection.Wagmo Wellness plans also include 24/7 access to VETalk, so you can consult with licensed veterinary professionals via chat about changes you may be noticing in your pet’s behavior, mobility, cognitive function and more. They are also available to any pet, regardless of age, breed or pre-existing condition.Remember, you’ll want to make sure your pet is already covered by pet insurance before any health issues do materialize. Unlike most providers, Wagmo plans cover up to 100% coinsurance after deductible, to help ensure you can give your pet the best possible care if and when they need it.Emotional well-beingLastly and perhaps most importantly, keep tending to your pet’s emotional well-being. They may not be able to leap up to lick you awake anymore, but they still thrive on your love and affection. Take naps and slow walks together, shower them with attention, and give them a safe and comfortable space that’s connected to the social hub of your home.By paying careful attention to the needs of your loyal companion now, you can help keep them happy and healthy throughout their senior years.