Geriatric Dog Health/Behavior

Question
I have a 15 year old Golden Retriever/Lab mix.
She is comfortable, but as with some aged dogs is showing her health problems such as arthritus etc.
She also has become intolerant to change.  Changing her daily routine is extremely stressful to her.  Taking her for grooming is out of the question because of stress and not being able to comfortably transport her.  Her nails need trimmed but when I try to attempt any grooming she is completely intolerant.  Visitation by a mobile vet is not something she can/will tolerate.  What can I do?  Or at this stage in her life do we just make her comfortable?  

Answer
Judi
 Wow, 15 years old is great for any dog her size. I can imagine she is discomforted by the general aliments that come with aging. Dogs just like people will become more easily stressed as they age, as you noticed.
The best you can do for her at this time is, try and keep her a comfortable as possible. However, she needs to continue to have her regular veterinarian check ups. I suggest you discuss the use of sedatives for her with your veterinarian, so she will be able to handle the stress of most situations better. Your veterinarian can offer you a prescription for Diazepam, or another similar type sedative. If her nails are in dire need of being clipped, you can give her the sedative and be able to clip them without upsetting her.
Additionally, I suggest you try and offer her a Bach Flower Essence. The two I recommend are Rock Rose, (for dogs that are easily panicked), and Scleranthus, (for dog that are moody).There are other indicated homeopathic and holistic remedies that may provider her with relief for her pain and help in calming her in stressful situations, especially if you feel that sedating her is not your first choice.
Finally I recommend that you administer her Glucosamine and Chondroitin for her arthritis. Both these supplements help in rebuilding cartilage and lubricating her joints; offering intense pain relief with out having to use steroid based drugs. I hope this offers some help. Please feel free to get back to me with any additional questions or concerns. I can offer some additional information about various homeopathic and holistic remedies. I wish you both the best.

                                            Jodi