Murry and Julie Walton with Maggie and Blue Belle.
Dog’s Eye View, written by Boise, Idaho website designer, Julie Walton; her hubby, Murry; and their best friend and dog blogger, Maggie. (Note – sorry to report Maggie died October, 2012. We are happy to introduce you to to the newest member of our family, an adopted rescue Aussie/Heeler named Blue Belle.) She is the Rescue Dog that rescued us.
Our goal in creating this blog is to inform and educate our friends about dogs and the resources we have here in the beautiful Northwest, and to include some good clean fun!
If you have a suggestion, or idea, please feel free to comment or send an email. See the Comment Bubble at the top of each post. Thanks for your interest.
“The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue.” ~Author Unknown
Blue Belle and Trixie keeping me company in the garden.
Even though it’s only early February here in Boise, the garden is already whispering that spring is on its way. It’s one of my favorite times of year for gardening with dogs, especially with Blue Belle by my side. We’ve seen the first flock of robins, and the resident birds are already flittering between the feeder and the safety of the trees. The air has that subtle shift — the one that makes you pause on the porch a moment longer, just to breathe it in. The crocuses are almost ready to burst into their purple mass of color, and soon the bumble bees will be buzzing in for their annual photo shoot.
Alaska Gardening Memories
Growing up in Alaska, we learned early to appreciate the fertile soil of our valley, and those lessons stayed with us. My brother, Ron, grew beans and even popcorn — yes, real popcorn — while my sisters Susie, Sharon, and I spent time in the garden with our mom, learning the names of flowers and discovering which ones could survive the cool summers. Mom would start her gladiolus bulbs indoors in milk cartons cut in half, lining them up on the windowsill like little promises of color.
Recently, Sharon reminded me of the spectacular wildflowers along the route to Anchorage — the bright Fireweed, the blue and purple Flags (wild iris), and the delicate shooting stars scattered across the fields. How could I forget? The moose, in their slow and steady way, always seemed to know just when the Fireweed was at its best. They would happily munch their way through the blooms. Fireweed was even considered a predictor of winter: once the flowers reached the top of the stalk and began forming seedpods, it meant snow wasn’t far behind. As the old saying goes, “When the fireweed goes to cotton, summer is soon forgotten.”
Alaska’s Wildflowers and Family Traditions
Our childhood memories stretch far beyond the flowers. We foraged wild raspberries and currants in the woods, and to this day I can still taste Mom’s wild currant jelly. She worked at the Alaska Experiment Station, where one of their projects involved fiddleheads. She would bring them home for dinner, and Ron remembers driving a van to Talkeetna to pick up fiddleheads that were later processed at the old creamery — the same place our dad once worked.
With all those beautiful blooms and flavors of our Alaska childhood, it’s still the tiny Forget‑Me‑Not — Alaska’s state flower — that has stayed closest to my heart. I’ve always loved their pretty blue petals, maybe because blue has always been my favorite color. I’ve planted Forget‑Me‑Nots here in my Boise garden, and one year, while visiting Sharon on her island in Washington State, I picked up some at a local garden center to give her as a gift. I brought a few home for myself too, tucked in beside the rocks I gathered from her island beach. Now, whenever I see those little blue flowers in spring and summer, I think of my Alaska home and my family. As a result, those memories still shape the way I approach gardening with dogs today.
Caring for a senior dog is one of the most rewarding — and emotional — parts of pet parenthood. As dogs enter their golden years, their needs change, their bodies slow down, and their comfort becomes the top priority. Ultimately, her checkup reminded us that supporting the quality of life for senior dogs isn’t just about treating conditions — it’s about creating comfort, reducing stress, and helping them enjoy their days in meaningful ways.
After a recent visit with our 14‑year‑old dog Blue Belle’s oncologist, who helped guide us through her cancer survival journey, we learned that while her cancer is stable (a huge relief), she’s now facing arthritis and cataracts. Naturally, these age‑related conditions are incredibly common in older dogs, and they sparked a bigger conversation about what truly matters at this stage of life: quality of life.
In this post, we’ll share what we learned, what other pet parents should watch for, and how to support a senior dog’s comfort, mobility, and happiness.
Why Quality of Life Matters for Senior Dogs
As dogs age, the goal shifts from “treating everything” to making every day feel good. Quality of life isn’t just about medical conditions — it’s about:
Comfort
Mobility
Appetite
Sleep
Emotional well‑being
Ability to enjoy favorite activities
Veterinarians often use a Quality of Life Scale to help families make decisions. It’s a compassionate, practical tool that evaluates pain, mobility, hygiene, appetite, and overall happiness. Ultimately, when we understand what contributes to the quality of life for senior dogs, it becomes easier to make thoughtful choices that keep them comfortable and emotionally supported. You can read more about Blue Belle’s journey in her senior‑dog reflections.
Common Health Issues in Senior Dogs
1. Arthritis in Older Dogs
Arthritis affects over half of senior dogs and can cause stiffness, limping, and difficulty with stairs or getting up. Fortunately, several simple adjustments can help:
Soft, supportive bedding
Ramps or stairs for furniture and cars
Gentle, low‑impact exercise
Warmth (senior dogs love heated beds)
Vet‑recommended pain management options
2. Cataracts and Vision Loss
Cataracts can cloud a dog’s vision and make navigation harder. To help, try:
Keeping furniture in consistent places
Night lights for dark hallways
Clear verbal cues
Avoiding sudden changes in the environment
3. Slowing Down in General
Senior dogs may sleep more, walk slower, or lose interest in long outings. Even so, this is normal — and it’s okay to adjust expectations.
How to Improve the Quality of Life for Senior Dogs
Blue Belle enjoying a cozy moment on her heated pet pad, surrounded by her favorite plush toys.
1. Pain Management for Improving Quality of Life
Pain is one of the biggest factors affecting quality of life. For that reason, talk to your vet about:
Medications
Joint supplements
Acupuncture or laser therapy
Physical therapy
2. Mobility Support for Senior Dog Quality of Life
Small changes make a big difference. For example:
Non‑slip rugs
Raised food bowls
Harnesses with handles
Shorter, more frequent walks
3. Sensory Support
For dogs with cataracts or hearing loss, simple adjustments can help:
Use scent cues
Keep routines predictable
Add tactile markers (like mats) near stairs or doors
If you’re dreaming of including your dog in your wedding day, our guest writer, Nick Burton, shares practical tips for planning a calm, dog‑friendly celebration. For anyone searching for dog wedding ideas that keep your pup comfortable and relaxed, his guide offers simple, confidence‑building ways to include your dog with ease. This post is full of dog wedding ideas that focus on comfort, calm behavior, and helping your pup feel at ease throughout the day.
For dog-owning couples, wedding planning with pets can feel like balancing a once-in-a-lifetime celebration with the emotional bond that makes a dog part of the family. The core tension is real: including dogs in weddings sounds joyful, but unfamiliar crowds, noise, schedules, and new spaces can trigger stress, especially for anxious dogs, reactive dogs, and seniors who need extra care. Many couples want pet-friendly wedding ideas that honor their dog’s comfort without turning the day into a constant worry check. With the right mindset and a few thoughtful choices, the celebration can stay calm, safe, and genuinely shared.
Quick Summary: Including Your Dog in Your Wedding
Choose comfortable pet wedding attire and accessories that keep your dog relaxed and safe.
Add your dog to the celebration with pet invitations and simple, thoughtful wedding-day roles.
Plan wedding photos with pets by prioritizing calm timing, familiar cues, and your dog’s comfort.
Protect your dog with pet safety basics like quiet breaks, secure spaces, and trusted supervision.
Offer pet entertainment options that reduce stress and keep your dog happily engaged.
Plan Pet Roles, Outfits, Decor, and Comfort Step by Step
A dog-friendly wedding works best when you plan your pup’s role the same way you plan your timeline: one small, thoughtful decision at a time. Use these steps to turn the “fast ideas” (outfits, photos, safety, and fun) into a calm, realistic plan your dog can actually enjoy.
Pick one main “job” for your dog (and keep it short): Choose a simple role like greeting guests during cocktail hour, walking down the aisle with a handler, or popping in for portraits, then plan an exit. Most dogs do best with 5–10 minute “on-stage” moments, followed by downtime in a quiet space. This keeps the day joyful instead of overwhelming and protects your photo moments from last-minute stress.
Dress for comfort first, photos second: Do a fit test at home for 10–15 minutes, then a second test during a short walk so you can spot rubbing, overheating, or stiff movement. The guidance to Choose pet-friendly attire helps you prioritize pieces that won’t restrict shoulders, press on the throat, or snag fur. If your dog is sensitive, swap a full outfit for a lightweight bandana or bow tie.
Make the ring-bearer role “prop-safe” and optional: If you want the classic ring-bearer moment, attach a lightweight pouch or decorative box to a harness, not a collar, so nothing pulls on the neck. Keep real rings with a human, and use a decoy for the walk to avoid a panic if your dog shakes or drops it. Practice the aisle walk twice: once with treats every few steps, and once with only praise, so your dog can succeed either way.
Coordinate matching accessories without overloading your dog: Pick one “match point” (floral color, fabric, or metal tone) and repeat it across the leash, harness, and your signage or bouquet ribbon. A comfortable harness can be disguised with a removable sash, small faux flower cluster, or bow, then removed quickly after photos. This gives you the cohesive look from the quick-ideas list without asking your dog to tolerate multiple fussy items.
Use pet-themed decor in places your dog won’t have to interact with: Put the fun details on invitations, signature drink signs, napkins, or a small “welcome” poster instead of on your dog’s body. If you want a dog photo station, set it near a quieter corner with clear boundaries so guests don’t crowd your pup. Decor should celebrate your dog without turning them into the center of attention all day.
Build a comfort kit and a “decompression zone” at the venue: Pack water, a collapsible bowl, poop bags, wipes, a towel, and a familiar blanket or crate cover that smells like home. Choose a low-traffic room or shaded corner as your dog’s reset spot, and schedule two short breaks (even 10 minutes each) around the busiest times. Add a chew or lick mat for calming, plus one backup toy in case the first gets lost.
Assign a dedicated handler and a treat-and-toy plan: Your dog needs one person whose only job is dog care, bathroom breaks, water, distance from the dance floor, and deciding when your pup is “done.” If you don’t have a trusted friend who can truly focus, consider a wedding pet assistant service so you’re not managing logistics in formalwear. Give the handler a simple script: high-value treats for arrivals and photos, a chew during speeches, and a toy only in the decompression zone so it stays special.
Blue Belle had just finished her visit with her oncologist when this topic first landed in my heart. After her ultrasound, her belly was shaved, and Dr. Hume gently suggested our dog wear a winter coat or sweater outside to keep her warm. That was all the encouragement we needed. Being the caring (and slightly fashion‑obsessed) dog parents we are, we went shopping and found her a cozy sweater and a new winter coat — even though she already had a perfectly good one at home. She deserved comfort, warmth, and yes, a little style.
That moment made me think about all the dogs out there — seniors, short‑haired pups, dogs recovering from medical procedures — who truly benefit from a little extra winter protection. And it also made me think about dogs like our sweet Scout, who had a thick, luxurious coat and would have overheated in a sweater within minutes.
So how do you know whether your dog needs a coat or sweater? And how long should they wear one? Let’s walk through it.
🐾 When Your Dog Might Need a Winter Coat or Sweater
When a Winter Coat Helps Keep Your Dog Comfortable
A winter coat is most helpful for dogs who struggle to stay warm on their own. Short‑haired breeds, senior dogs, and pups with health conditions often benefit from the extra insulation. In particular, coats are also ideal for cold, wet, or windy weather because they protect against the elements better than sweaters. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs with short coats, low body fat, or certain medical conditions often need extra protection in cold weather.
When a Sweater Is the Better Choice
Sweaters are perfect for dry, chilly days or for dogs who need gentle warmth without heavy insulation. They’re especially helpful for dogs with shaved areas, like Blue Belle after her ultrasound, or for pups who need comfort indoors or during short outdoor breaks.
Short‑haired or thin‑coated dogs
Breeds like Pit Bulls, Greyhounds, Boxers, and many mixed‑breed pups simply don’t have enough insulation to stay warm in cold weather. Blue Belle, with her short hair, fits into this category — especially now as a senior.
Senior Dogs Who Struggle With Temperature Regulation
Older dogs often struggle to regulate body temperature. As a result, a sweater can make winter walks more comfortable and help them conserve energy.
Dogs With Health Conditions or Shaved Areas
For example, hypothyroidism, arthritis, cancer treatment, or shaved areas from medical procedures (like Blue Belle’s belly) all make warmth extra important.
Small Breeds That Lose Heat Quickly
Tiny pups lose heat quickly and often benefit from sweaters even on moderately chilly days.
Even so, a dog with a decent coat can get chilled if they’re damp or exposed to wind.
When Dogs Don’t Need Extra Layers
Some dogs are naturally equipped for winter. Thick, double‑coated breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, and long‑haired Australian Shepherds (like Scout) stay warm on their own. Additionally, active dogs may also overheat quickly, and most dogs don’t need clothing indoors unless medically advised.
If you want to strengthen your bond with your dog, small daily habits make a big difference. Beyond that, a strong bond with your dog doesn’t just make life sweeter — it shapes how your dog experiences the world. As a result, a connected dog is more confident, easier to train, and better able to relax because they trust the person guiding them. Whether you’re starting fresh or deepening an old bond, these simple, science‑backed strategies can help you build trust, communication, and a lasting sense of partnership.
Why Strengthening Your Bond With Your Dog Matters
A healthy bond creates:
A calmer, more secure dog
Better communication and easier training
Reduced stress for both of you
A deeper sense of companionship
Every small moment you share becomes part of your dog’s emotional foundation.
Dogs thrive on attention and routine. Even 10–15 minutes of focused time — playing, training, or simply relaxing together — strengthens your connection. These small moments help strengthen your bond with your dog right from the start.
Try This:
Short training sessions
Gentle brushing
Snuggle time on the couch
A slow, sniff‑filled walk
2. Learn Your Dog’s Body Language
Understanding your dog’s signals helps you respond to their needs and emotions. In turn, when your dog feels understood, trust grows naturally. Dogs communicate through subtle cues — the position of their ears, the tension in their body, the way they hold their tail, even how they shift their weight. Because of this, learning to notice these small changes can help you catch stress early, support your dog before they feel overwhelmed, and strengthen your connection over time. For a helpful overview of common signals and what they mean, you can read this AKC guide on how to read dog body language.
Sometimes, when our dogs are anxious, restless, or simply having a tough day, we naturally look for gentle ways to help them feel safe. One surprisingly powerful tool — and one Blue Belle responds to beautifully — is calming music for dogs. Not just any music — but sounds and rhythms that speak to a dog’s unique hearing and emotional world.
For example, we ask Alexa to play calming dog music for Blue Belle whenever things get noisy outside. If you use Amazon Music, they have playlists designed just for dogs that can help them settle.
Lately, I’ve been using it every day and night, and I can tell Blue Belle really loves it. Yesterday she even walked into my bedroom, looked up at the Echo, and waited for me to turn her music on. She’s so smart — she knows exactly what helps her relax. (Affiliate links — thank you for supporting Blue Belle.)
🐾 Blue Belle’s Rough Day — and the Moment Music Helped
Blue Belle, finally resting after a restless day — with calming music playing in the background 🎵🎵🎵
Recently, Blue Belle has been going through a medication transition — slowly shifting off one cancer medication and onto a new arthritis treatment. Anyone who has cared for a senior dog knows how these changes can make them feel unsettled. Today, she was restless, pacing, unable to settle into sleep.
Then I remembered something important: during New Year’s Eve fireworks, I played calming dog music — and she stayed relaxed the entire night.
So tonight, I asked Alexa to play calming dog music again. Afterward, within minutes, Blue Belle softened. Then her breathing slowed. Her body relaxed. And eventually, she drifted into sleep.
Ultimately, this wasn’t a coincidence. It’s something science supports.
