October is National Pet Wellness Month, and Suncoast animal advocate Marsha Panuce says the most important health checks happen at home, not at the vet’s office. Panuce founded Donte’s Den in Myakka City, a sanctuary for middle-aged and senior dogs, and hosts Animal Outtakes on ABC7. Her advice to owners is straightforward: run your hands over your dog while you’re petting them, watch for limping or a sudden drop in energy, and don’t wait when something feels wrong. As she puts it, catching an issue quickly makes all the difference.
Nutrition and exercise are the other big pieces, and they change over time. What you feed a puppy, loaded with protein, is not what you feed a nine-year-old dog. Panuce says diets should be adjusted with your veterinarian as pets age, not left on autopilot. She also flags two frequently skipped items: dental care and microchip registration. If you’ve moved or changed your phone number since your pet was chipped, that registration may need updating.
For those who want to support older dogs on the Suncoast, Donte’s Den is holding a Luncheon Fashion Show fundraiser on October 21 at Pascone’s Restaurant in Bradenton, organized by Scout & Molly’s Lakewood Ranch. The event helps cover medical costs for senior dogs in the sanctuary’s care.
What’s one small change you’ve made for your pet’s health that paid off? Let us know.
