Amie knows that healthy aging starts long before dogs become seniors. After sharing 17 wonderful years with her beloved dog, Gunnar, she now takes a proactive approach with her middle-aged husky, Ava. Leap Years® is part of Ava’s daily routine, helping support healthy aging while they continue making memories together.
Here’s why Amie believes the little moments—and planning ahead—matter most.
Question 01
What are some of the everyday routines, adventures, or quiet moments that help you and Ava stay connected?
Ava is a typical husky—high energy, sassy, stubborn, and very much the one in charge most of the time. One of my favorite parts of the day is our walk before bed. Since it’s nighttime, all the little creatures are out, and it’s become our nightly “sniff safari.” I love watching her get excited about every smell and seeing what she can find. Lately she’s been obsessed with crickets and chases them down the sidewalk. Those simple (peaceful) everyday moments where she gets to be fully herself are probably my favorite.
Question 02
Having cared for dogs through different life stages, what inspired you to start Ava on Leap Years® as part of a proactive approach to healthy aging?
I’ve learned that dogs age much faster than we’d like them to. Ava still acts like a puppy most days and has endless energy, but I know that won’t always be the case. I wanted to be proactive and start supporting her health now rather than waiting until I notice signs of aging. If there’s something I can do today to help her stay healthy and active longer, I want to do it.
Question 03
If you could share one piece of advice with other dog parents about building a strong bond and making the most of their time together, what would it be?
Don’t underestimate the little moments. The walks, the routines, the car rides, and even the things that drive you crazy are often the memories you end up cherishing most. My favorite memory of my dog Gunnar (who just passed) was him walking after me some mornings and bopping around the house looking for me (we called it Paw Patrol). He would be on such a mission and then the minute he spotted me he would get so happy and start wagging his tail. Dogs don’t care about fancy adventures—they just want to spend time with you.
“Healthy aging starts before your dog becomes a senior. We all wish we could have more time with our dogs, and for me, being proactive is one way I can feel like I’m doing my best for Ava.”
Question 04
Having experienced the journey of caring for an older dog with Gunnar (17), did that influence how you think about supporting Ava’s healthy aging today?
Absolutely. Gunnar was my world. If I could have one thing, it would be more time with him. He lived a really happy and long 17 years, but looking back, I wish I had done more when he was younger—things like preventative health care, yearly body scans, supplements, and anything else that might have helped me catch issues earlier or give him the best possible chance to stay healthy. Losing him changed the way I think about aging and is a big reason why I’m more proactive with Ava’s health today.
Question 05
What would you tell a pet parent who is considering trying Leap Years® for the first time for their dog?
I’d tell them that healthy aging starts before your dog becomes a senior. We all wish we could have more time with our dogs, and for me, being proactive is one way I can feel like I’m doing my best for Ava.
Caring for your dog is about the small things you do every day. Being intentional in your approach to your dog’s aging journey helps them stay healthier, and more like themselves, for longer.
