Kona's Loving Paws

01/29/2025

As pet parents, we cherish every moment with our furry companions. When they reach their golden years, understanding the signs that they may need extra care can help us give them the love and comfort they deserve.

Here are a few signs to look out for:
⚫Changes in Appetite and Thirst: Your pet may start eating or drinking less, or not at all.
⚫Energy Levels: They may seem tired more often, preferring long naps over their usual activities.
⚫Breathing Patterns: Labored or unusual breathing can be a sign they’re struggling.
⚫Physical Discomfort: If they appear restless, limp, or have difficulty lying down, they could be in pain.
⚫Behavioral Shifts: They might become withdrawn, less interactive, or seem confused.

These signs aren’t always easy to recognize or interpret, but you’re not alone. We’re here to guide you through this journey.

👉 To help you assess your pet’s well-being, we’ve created a Quality of Life Assessment Form—a helpful tool for evaluating their comfort and happiness.

At , we also offer Quality of Life Consultations, available virtually or in person. These consultations are designed to give you personalized support and peace of mind during this time. Check out our free resources here: https://www.konaslovingpaws.com/quality-of-life-assessment

💌 If you have questions or need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to walk this path with you. You may reach us at 614-892-5662.

01/29/2025

Your thoughtful words truly warm our hearts, Kelsey. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us—it’s an honor to support families like yours.

01/27/2025

🌈💕 Memory Monday 💕🌈

This week, we remember Monte, a furbaby who will always hold a special place in Stacy’s heart. Monte was not just loved—he was so deeply cherished. Let’s honor his memory together, celebrating the bond that continues to shine even after he’s crossed the rainbow bridge.

Monte, you are forever loved. ❤️

✨ Share your own memories of your beloved pets for a future Memory Monday. We'd love to honor them with you. 🐾

01/25/2025

It's words like these that remind us why we do what we do. Our mission is to provide peace and comfort during life's most challenging moments. Thank you, Cary & Jeff, for trusting us with your beloved companion’s care and for your beautiful blessings. 🌈

01/25/2025

When the time comes to say goodbye, choosing the right aftercare option is an important part of honoring your beloved pet’s memory. At , we offer compassionate cremation services designed to meet the unique needs of your family.

⚫ Private Cremation: Your pet is cremated individually, ensuring you receive only their ashes in a dignified urn.
⚫Communal Cremation: A respectful option where your pet is cremated alongside others. Ashes are not returned but are handled with care and dignity.

In addition, you can create a lasting tribute with a personalized, hand-crafted memorial keepsake of your pet’s prints through our trusted partner. It’s a beautiful way to keep them close to your heart forever.

💛 Your pet’s legacy deserves the utmost care, and we’re here to walk this path with you.

Visit our website to learn more about aftercare options and keepsakes: https://www.konaslovingpaws.com/aftercare.

01/24/2025

Tell us about the animal who changed your life forever.

01/23/2025

Join us in celebrating the life of Lady, a little dog with a big heart, who was deeply loved and will never be forgotten. 🐾💖

In Loving Memory of LadyWhen I was little, I dreamed of having my very own dog. I imagined a cocker spaniel, and planned to name her Lady, after my favorite movie, Lady and the Tramp. A few years after college, that’s exactly what I did—and what a gift she was.From the very first moment I saw he...

01/20/2025

🌈✨ Memory Monday ✨🌈

Today, we honor Ty, a playful and loving soul who brought so much joy to those around him. His energy was infectious, and he never met someone he didn’t adore—who, in turn, couldn’t help but love him back.

Thank you, Deborah Culp Schuette for sharing Ty's beautiful story with us. ❤️

01/18/2025

Join us in supporting Peaches' family and celebrating what a beautiful life she lived. Thank you for sharing this beautiful memorial to honor your fur baby. 🌈❤️

Peaches (Peachies) was the sweetest, happiest little orange girl. She was ALWAYS purring. Peaches enjoyed country music, laying on the floor vents when the heat was on, and watching kitty TV (bird/ animal watching through the sliding glass door). She would chirp back at the birds. She enjoyed wrestl...

01/15/2025

Thank you so much for your kind words, Jenilee. We're deeply touched by your message and honored to have been there for you and Stewie during such a tender time. Dr. Rikh's compassionate care means the world to us, and we’re so glad we could provide comfort when you needed it most. Sending love and support your way as you remember your sweet Stewie.

01/13/2025

Join us as we honor and remember Ty, a playful, loving soul who brought joy to everyone he met. 💕 Ty’s mom, Deborah, shared how much she misses her partner in crime, and we’re grateful to have been there to support her during such a difficult time. Let’s celebrate the beautiful memories Ty left behind. 🌈

Ty was quite the character. His personality was fun & playful. Always on the move. Never found someone he didn't love & they loved him too. I miss my partner in crime so much!!Thank you for coming to my home to take my best friend to heaven. Through the pain & grief somehow the Dr. made this seem be...

01/13/2025

🌈✨ Memory Monday ✨🌈

Today's memory comes from one of Dr. Rikh’s friends, celebrating the simple and sweet moments shared with Josey. Nap time with Josey was truly the best. 💕

Thank you for sharing this heartwarming moment with us. ❤️

01/10/2025

Understanding Cognitive Dysfunction in Pets

As pets age, their cognitive function may decline, much like humans. This condition, known as cognitive dysfunction, can lead to disorientation, anxiety, disrupted sleep-wake cycles, housesoiling, and changes in activity levels. Left unmanaged, these symptoms can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life, making daily routines difficult and straining the bond between pets and their families.

The signs of cognitive dysfunction are often remembered by the acronym DISHA:

Disorientation – Getting lost in familiar places, not recognizing loved ones, or confusion at doors.
Interactions – Changes in behavior, like becoming overly clingy, disinterested, or irritable.
Sleep-wake cycles – Increased daytime sleeping, nighttime restlessness, or disrupted sleep patterns.
Housesoiling – Soiling indoors or failing to signal the need to go outside.
Activity level – Decreased interest in play or activity, or increased restlessness and repetitive behaviors like wandering.

Other signs include increased anxiety, new fears or phobias, and challenges with learning or memory. These changes can make adapting to routines or environments difficult, and over time, can diminish your pet's comfort and happiness.

As their cognitive abilities decline, pets can experience confusion and distress, making it harder for them to enjoy life or maintain their bond with you. These changes also take an emotional toll on families, leaving many feeling helpless about how to provide the best care for their beloved companion.

At Kona’s Loving Paws, we specialize in helping pets and families navigate end-of-life care with dignity and compassion. If you’re noticing signs of cognitive dysfunction or struggling with decisions about your pet’s quality of life, we’re here to help. Through both virtual and in-person consultations, we can provide guidance, and support.

01/10/2025

It's cold outside but we're kept warm by these kind words. Thank you for allowing us to be part of Lucy's journey.

01/07/2025

Thank you for your kind words. 🧡

01/07/2025

🐾 Memory Monday 🐾

This week, we honor Willow, Kristin’s “ride or die” heart dog. ❤️ Willow’s personality shone brightly, especially during mealtime with her signature move—flipping her bowl around to let everyone know it was time to eat!

Thank you, Kristin, for sharing this sweet memory of Willow. Her love and spirit will always be remembered.

Would you like to share a cherished memory of your pet? Send us your story for a future Memory Monday. ❤️

01/05/2025

Losing a pet is incredibly hard, and the decision about their final resting place can be emotional and challenging. While a home burial might feel like a comforting choice, there are a few important facts to consider before you make that decision. Here’s what every pet owner should know about the potential hazards of home burial for euthanized pets.

Losing a pet is incredibly hard, and the decision about their final resting place can be emotional and challenging. While a home burial might feel like a comforting choice, there are a few important facts to consider before you make that decision. Here’s what every pet owner should know about the ...

01/01/2025

The average cat lifespan is 13–17 years, though many can live to be 20 years old or more. With such a long life, proper care is vital for each of a cat’s life stage—especially when they enter their senior years.

But when is a cat considered a senior, and what does being a senior cat mean? Here’s what to know about your aging cat and how to keep them healthy.

As cats age, their needs change. Here is a guide on how your senior cat’s dietary and health needs may change as they get older.