Hi everyone! Alexis here — I’m the Community and Influencer Manager at Dr. Harvey’s, and I’m lucky enough to work with our amazing pet parent community every day. We’re always sharing stories, learning from one another, and talking about what it means to truly care for our animals. Today, I wanted to share a little more about my own pup, Larry, and what I feed him each day.
Larry is my whole world. He’s a sweet senior who’s been through a lot over the past few years. After needing emergency surgery, he developed significant issues with his hind legs. Watching him recover hasn’t been easy but through it all, his spirit hasn’t changed. He’s still happy, full of life, and feeling good. I believe a big part of that is his diet, paired with the unconditional love and care he gets daily.
Larry’s Daily Diet
Every day, Larry enjoys a combination of We Feed Raw and Dr. Harvey’s Raw Vibrance. I’ve chosen to feed raw because not only does he absolutely love it, but it’s also easier for him to digest which is especially important for older dogs. We Feed Raw makes it simple by shipping frozen meals directly to your door. Their meat comes pre-portioned in convenient 16 oz packages, making mealtime quick and stress-free.
Raw Vibrance is the base mix I use to complement his raw protein. I’ve always loved the ingredient list. It’s packed with nutrients that I feel are especially beneficial for senior dogs. With a thoughtful blend of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and whole foods, I know Larry’s getting both variety and nourishment in every bowl. It’s also formulated to support joint health and the immune system, which gives me peace of mind knowing I’m helping him feel his best from the inside out.
Supplementation
Larry faces some health challenges that affect his mobility so I choose to include supplements in his daily routine to support his joints and overall well-being. While I rotate through a variety of products depending on his needs, there are three that I give him every single day:
Hip + Joint Soft Chews: Larry loves the taste of these! They make the perfect tasty reward–at least your dog will think so. These chews provide targeted joint support to help promote cartilage lubrication, muscle recovery, and keep those limbs limber and moving comfortably.
Ortho-Flex Supplement: This herbal joint supplement is something that I mix into Larry’s We Feed Raw and Raw Vibrance. The herbs in this formula help support healthy joints and ease occasional stiffness, making it a great daily addition for senior dogs or those needing a little extra mobility support.
Solaris: This is an herbal mushroom blend designed to support a healthy immune system. Mushrooms are incredibly powerful and offer a wide range of benefits, from immune support to overall vitality. I add Solaris to Larry’s meals daily as a simple way to help keep his body balanced and resilient.
Other Ways I Support My Senior Pup
Caring for a senior dog can require a little extra attention, but it’s so rewarding! In addition to feeding Larry a healthy diet and incorporating beneficial supplements, I also look for simple ways to enhance his everyday life. Many of these are things you can easily incorporate if you have a senior pup too. Here are a few things that help him stay happy, comfortable, and engaged as he ages.
Regular Exercise: Larry’s mobility is limited, so he needs some assistance getting around and that’s okay! One of the best ways I help him stay active is through underwater treadmill sessions. This low-impact exercise helps keep his joints moving without putting too much pressure on them. It took a little time for him to adjust, but now he loves going!
Enrichment Activities: Since Larry isn’t as active as he used to be, I focus on keeping his mind engaged with puzzles, slow feeders, and lick mats. These tools are a great way to provide mental stimulation and keep his brain sharp. He loves them, especially when I add some of his favorite Dr. Harvey’s treats, like the Minnow Minis!
Supportive Bed: A good night’s rest makes a big difference. Larry has a cozy orthopedic bed that gives his joints the support they need. I also make sure his favorite resting spots around the house are easy to access, so he can relax and feel comfortable wherever he is.
Regular Vet Visits: Staying on top of Larry’s wellness care is essential. In addition to regular checkups, he gets chiropractic adjustments that help keep him aligned and feeling good. These visits have made a noticeable difference in his mobility and overall comfort. Pro tip: Ask your vet if they offer any similar services to help your pup feel their best!
Extra Love: Most importantly, Larry gets lots of love and attention every single day. Whether it’s snuggling up on his bed with him, gentle massages, or just being in the same room, I know that the emotional bond we share plays a huge role in his happiness and well-being.
A Day Well Fed, A Life Well Loved Caring for a senior dog like Larry is a journey filled with love, patience, and thoughtful choices. From the fresh, nutrient-packed meals to the daily supplements, gentle exercise, and extra affection, every little step helps support his health and happiness. Whether your pup is just entering their golden years or has been a senior for a while, I hope Larry’s story inspires you to find the routine that works best for your furry friend. After all, they deserve to feel their best every day, no matter their age.
Thank you for reading and for being part of this incredible community that celebrates our pets every step of the way!
