By Laura Silverman | Published - 16 May 2026 We often assume that our pets will slow down as they get older. They might tire quickly on walks, hesitate before they leap onto the sofa or start to look a little scruffy. Often, we can do small things to help, especially if we notice signs early. “Not everything is curable, but there are ways to make animals more comfortable so that they can lead happy, interesting lives,” says Roisin Bolger, a vet at the animal charity Blue Cross.