Adapting an Apartment for an Older and Younger Dog

Our older dog, Max, liked quiet afternoons. Our younger dog, Ruby, thought afternoons were for wrestling.

In our one-bedroom apartment, we fitted a gate across the bedroom doorway so Max could rest without Ruby bouncing onto his bed. We also put non-slip runners along the hallway after noticing him hesitate on the smooth floor.

The bulky coffee table went into storage, leaving a clearer route between his bed, water bowl and the door.

Ruby gets her energetic play and walks separately, while Max has his slower outings. The arrangement isn’t glamorous, but seeing him walk through the flat confidently again made the changes worthwhile.