The Scoop
Enrichment for senior pets
As our beloved dogs enter their golden years, it’s natural to notice them slowing down. They may take a little longer to rise, spend more time resting, or show less enthusiasm for long walks. Often, senior pets are described as sleeping all day, but this can sometimes be more than just a sign of getting older. Reduced activity may also be linked to joint discomfort, which makes movement less appealing. Supporting joint health with Collagenie’s hydrolysed collagen peptide meal booster, alongside a balanced diet, can help support mobility and comfort, allowing your dog to continue enjoying life’s simple pleasures. But nutrition is only part of the picture. Senior pets also thrive when their days include gentle movement, mental stimulation, and emotional connection. These elements work together to keep them comfortable, confident, and happy as they age. Let’s explore how you can enrich their environment to nurture their mind, body, and spirit throughout their golden years. Shorter, Slower Walks Although your dog may not be able to manage the 30-minute walk or run they once did, it doesn’t mean they’ve lost the joy of getting outside. Gentle, shorter walks are still so valuable for their physical and mental wellbeing. Movement helps maintain muscle mass and joint flexibility, as the saying goes, “move it or lose it.” Of course, everything should be done within reason, and they shouldn’t be sore or limping the next day. These shorter strolls also provide wonderful mental stimulation through new smells, sights, and friendly interactions along the way. Let your senior dog set the pace, take time to sniff, and simply enjoy being out and about. Think of it as a “sniffari,” where the journey is more important than the destination. Treat foraging games for older pets Some dogs love nothing more than using their nose to hunt for hidden treasures. Try hiding a few of their favourite treats or toys around the house or garden and watch them explore. It’s a simple activity that encourages gentle movement and mental stimulation without putting extra strain on their body. For a healthy twist, use low-calorie options like blueberries or carrot sticks. These provide extra nutrition without contributing to unnecessary weight gain. Just remember to count these treats toward their daily food allowance when serving dinner. These small moments of movement and discovery throughout the day can add up to big benefits over time, keeping your senior dog active, engaged, and happy. Snuffle mats and puzzle feeders for senior dogs Puzzle feeders or snuffle mats turn mealtime into a fun activity without adding extra calories. You can place their regular food in the feeder to make them “work” for their meal. It’s a great way to slow down eating and add mental stimulation. You can also make DIY versions at home using safe household items like muffin tins, toilet rolls, or towels; however, this should be done under supervision. For added interest, try placing dog-safe scents such as coconut, ginger, or cinnamon on the mat for a little extra sniffing fun. Your senor dog might love soft ball fetch This is for the pets who still love a good game of fetch but might pull up a bit sore. Try swapping the hard, fast-moving tennis ball for a soft, lightweight one that is gentler on their teeth and joints. Keep throws short and play on soft ground so they can chase and retrieve comfortably. It is no longer about speed or distance. The goal is to keep them moving and let them enjoy a game they have always loved. This gentler version of fetch helps maintain coordination, provides light exercise, and most importantly, reminds them that they still have it. Selective social interactions for senior pets The busy dog park might not be the best option for your senior pet at this stage. Young, energetic dogs can sometimes be a bit too much for an older companion who simply wants to enjoy a calm stroll without being bowled over. Instead, look for quieter opportunities for social time. Many senior dogs enjoy gentle company with other calm, older dogs. Try arranging relaxed playdates where they can wander together, sit under a tree, and take in the smells of the world at their own pace. These slower, low-stress interactions still provide valuable mental and emotional stimulation. Always keep an eye on your dog’s body language and let them decide how much interaction they’re comfortable with. Swimming can help senior dogs Swimming is a fantastic low-impact activity that many senior dogs can enjoy, whether at a local creek, a home pool, a flat beach, or in a controlled hydrotherapy environment. The water provides gentle resistance that works muscles without putting strain on joints, making it a safe and effective way for older dogs to stay active, maintain muscle tone, and build endurance. Many dogs enjoy weekly or fortnightly trips to a hydrotherapy clinic, while others love exploring a nearby creek or beach. Swimming also offers mental stimulation, keeping their minds engaged and providing enrichment in a fun, low-stress way. Swimming may not be suitable for every dog, so it’s always best to discuss this activity with your veterinarian to see if it’s the right choice for your senior pet. Supporting the whole pet Caring for a senior dog means considering all aspects of their wellbeing, including joint health, mobility, emotional balance, physical comfort, and mental stimulation. Enrichment helps maintain their quality of life, while supplements like Collagenie’s meal booster can support joint health, helping them continue enjoying these activities longer. If your senior pet shows any new or concerning behaviours, such as limping, anxiety, or reluctance to move, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They can rule out underlying medical issues and help you tailor a plan for nutrition, exercise, and enrichment that suits your pet’s individual needs. Here’s to keeping your golden oldie happy, active, and thriving for years to come.Happy Enrichment!
5 Signs Your Young, Active Dog Could Benefit from a Joint Supplement (Yes—Even Now!)
As pet parents, we live for those big backyard zoomies, epic ball-chasing sprints, and couch-leaping victory laps. But here’s the thing….no matter how young and bouncy your dog is right now, their joints are putting in some serious overtime. Sure, they may look indestructible, but even the most playful pups can start to feel the wear and tear long before we notice it. That little stumble on the stairs or pause before jumping into the car? Could be nothing... or could be their way of saying, “Hey, my joints might need a little extra love!” And while joint issues like osteoarthritis are often associated with older dogs, some signs can start early. That’s why many proactive pet parents like to stay one step ahead supporting joint health before their furry friends even show signs of slowing down. How can collagen help my dog stay active longer? Think of collagen as your dog’s built-in joint helper. It’s a natural part of the cartilage the soft, springy cushion that keeps their bones from rubbing together during all those jumps, twists, and turns. Over time, or with lots of activity, the collagen in cartilage can start to break down. When that happens, joints may become less flexible and resilient. Adding a collagen supplement like Collagenie is a simple, proactive way to support your dog’s mobility as they grow and stay active. How will I know if it's time to start my dog on collagen? 1. Known Breed Predisposition If your furry friend may be more prone to joint challenges in the future, early support could be a smart move. Even while they’re still young and full of zoomies, some dogs have a higher likelihood of developing issues like elbow or hip discomfort or kneecap instability. 2. High Activity Levels Living with a full-time fetch enthusiast? All that running, leaping, and nonstop motion puts extra pressure on their joints. Over time, that wear and tear can start to add up. Supporting their joints early helps keep them ready for every game, sprint, and spontaneous zoomie. 3. Agility, Herding, or Working Dogs Whether they’re weaving through tunnels or rounding up sheep, working and performance dogs put serious mileage on their joints with all that high-energy, nonstop action. 4. Adventure Buddies: Long Walks, Hikes, and Runs Whether they’re pacing you on your morning jog, charging up a bush track, or turning every walk into a full-body sprint, those paws are clocking some serious kilometres! All that movement means their joints are taking on extra impact. 5. Subtle Signs of Joint Stress A little hesitation before jumping into the car? A bit of stiffness after playtime? Even young dogs can show early hints that their joints are feeling the impact. The bottom line Your dog may still be young, wild, and full of bounce but their joints are working hard behind the scenes to keep up. Supporting them early isn’t just smart, it’s a loving way to help your best friend stay active and comfortable for years to come. Whether they’re agility champions, long daily walkers, or a professional ball casher, adding a daily joint support like Collagenie can be a simple way to invest in their long-term wellbeing. Not sure where to start? Take our quick quiz to find the Collagenie formula that best fits your dog’s lifestyle and needs. Bottom of Form Disclaimer: Every dog is different. If you have any concerns about your pet’s joint health or starting a supplement, it’s always best to check in with your vet first.
The Truth About Some Pet Treats (and What’s Actually Safe to Give Your Dog)
Dr Amy explores some of the mysterious ingredients found in some dog treats, and how you can make sure your pets are getting the best this Halloween!
No tricks, just treats; try our healthy Halloween treat recipe!
Looking for a great alternative to store bought treats for your furry friends this Halloween? Our quick, simple and delicious pumpkin collagen biscuits will win over even the fussiest of pups! Psst...there's a little something for our feline friends too!
The Spooky Effects of Sugar-Free Treats on Our Furry Friends
Sugar-Free at Halloween? Think Twice Halloween is the season of sweets, and while grabbing sugar-free gum or candies might seem like a healthier choice for you, it can be a serious hidden danger for your dog. Many sugar-free products contain xylitol, a sweetener that’s safe for humans but can be deadly to dogs. This sneaky ingredient can cause serious harm, so it’s important to know what xylitol is, where it’s found, and how to keep your dog safe this Halloween. What is Xylitol and Where Is It Found? Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in a wide range of everyday sugar-free products, including: Chewing gum Lollies and sweets Baked goods Peanut butter Jam and spreads Toothpaste and mouthwash While xylitol helps humans cut down on sugar, even a small amount can be dangerous for dogs. Why Is Xylitol So Dangerous for Dogs? When a dog ingests xylitol, it causes a sudden and massive release of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar. Unlike humans, dogs are extremely sensitive to this response. That insulin surge leads to a rapid drop in blood glucose levels, causing a hypoglycaemia event. This can happen within 10 to 60 minutes of ingestion, and symptoms may include: Vomiting Weakness or unsteadiness Tremors Seizures Collapse If left untreated, xylitol poisoning can be fatal. It’s fast and serious, which is why early action is essential. How to Protect Your Dog This Halloween: Store sugar-free treats securelyKeep them sealed in containers and placed high up, well out of reach of curious noses. Educate your trick-or-treatersLet kids and guests know that candy is for humans only. No sharing with the dog, no matter how persuasive those puppy-dog eyes might be. Create a dog-safe space during partiesSet up a calm, quiet area for your dog to relax away from the action, food, and distractions. Avoid buying sugar-free sweets altogetherIf possible, opt for regular sweets and keep them secured. Offer safe, dog-friendly treatsInclude your dog in the fun with their own Halloween snacks, like homemade biscuits or vet-approved treats. What To Do If Your Dog Eats Xylitol If you suspect your dog has eaten something containing xylitol, call your vet immediately, even if your dog seems fine. Have a Safe and Happy Halloween Halloween should be a fun time for the whole family, including your four-legged family members! By keeping sugar-free products safely stored and knowing the dangers of xylitol, you can help your dog avoid a scary situation. When in doubt, always reach out to your vet. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Why Chocolate and Dogs Don’t Mix: A Halloween Warning for Pet Parents
Halloween is all fun and treats for us humans, but for our pets, some of those sweets can be seriously spooky. While we’re unwrapping chocolates and candy, it’s important to remember that even small amounts of chocolate can be highly toxic to dogs (and cats too). In this article, Dr Amy explores why chocolate poses such a danger to our furry friends, what signs to watch for, and how to keep your pet safe while still enjoying the Halloween spirit.
Enrichment for Pets: How Food Can Fuel Their Body and Brain
At Collagenie we believe pets deserve more than full bellies—they deserve full lives. Discover easy food-based enrichment ideas that tap into your pet’s natural instincts, support digestion, calm their mind, and keep them effortlessly entertained. Plus, learn how collagen can boost joint, gut and coat health.
Easter Bunny Collagen Bites
Looking for a healthy Easter dog treat recipe? These homemade Easter Bunny Bites are made with simple, natural ingredients and boosted with Collagenie’s Certified Organic Collagen Meal Booster for strong joints, a shiny coat, and happy tummies. Perfect for pups with sensitive stomachs and ideal for a fun Easter dog treat hunt!
The Ultimate Guide to Collagen for Cats and Dogs
Wondering if your pet needs collagen? Discover how Collagenie supports your dog or cat’s joints, skin, and gut with pure hydrolysed collagen peptides.
