My 8.5 yo greyhound has just been diagnosed with arthritis. He's been prescribed painkillers and is going back in two weeks to assess whether he's less stiff and potentially to start acupuncture.
We recently got him a new fancy bed and put non-slip tape on the stairs. He seems thrilled with the bed and sleeps all night on it with no issue, but it's in our bedroom upstairs and he doesn't always seem to want to use the stairs sometimes. On those days/nights he'll sleep on the sofa, but usually starts the night lying at the foot of the stairs which is sad to see. He obviously wants to be with us but doesn't feel up to it.
What should I do? I have slept downstairs with him before when he's been ill or had surgery, but as he will hopefully live for a few more years I can't really sleep downstairs indefinitely on half a sofa! I was thinking about moving his bed downstairs so he doesn't have to jump on and off the sofa, but will he be sad he doesn't have the option of sleeping in our room? Is that a crazy question?? Lol. I just love the old boy and want him to be happy and not in pain.
The vet also recommended getting him a ramp for the car. I'm not convinced he'll be brave enough for that and can physically lift him in and out of the car, but would lifting hurt him?
Any other tips for old doggos? Thanks!