Ways to Help Your Dog Cope with Arthritis and Painful Joint Problems
Joint pain is common to a large number of dogs and it is either due to their age or weight. Twenty percent of all dogs will suffer from some form of arthritis during their lifetimes, according to a Morris Animal Foundation study. And you'll know it when you notice how your pet has a hard time sitting or lying down and standing. They become slower and don't want to go for walks. Don't even think about jumping or running, it is simply impossible due to the pain. If you notice these symptoms, please visit a vet. My tips will help your dog but it is of the utmost importance that you consult your pet's vet!
Diet and Weight
Make sure that you get your dog down to a healthy weight! Keeping your pet fit is a guarantee that arthritis won't be as painful. On the other hand, fail to do so and you'll only make things worse. More fat means more weight applied to joints and that will only cause worse inflammation. Buy high-quality dog food and make sure that the portions are just right. Do not overfeed or deprive your pet of food.
Exercise
Taking your dog for a walk on a regular basis should be a normal thing. First of all, it is healthy for your dog but it is also healthy for you. Take your dog to a local pet-friendly park or take it for a run. Start doing that as soon as you can since you'll want your dog to have better muscle mass and muscle function. That way, you'll protect its joints. Even if your dog already suffers from harsh arthritis, consult a professional and start the physical therapy as soon as you can.
Food and Supplements
As we've said before, buy only the best food for your best friend. High-quality dog food with the right nutritional profile can help prevent and reduce the severity and pain associated with arthritis. Food rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is what you should look for. On top of that, adding quality supplements to your dog's food is even better. Consider mixing the all-natural Sashas Blend powder with your dog's food since it contains a wide range of nutrients that help relieve arthritis. Your dog will feel less pain and its joints will benefit from it.
Medication
I'd like to stress once again that you need to consult your vet if you notice any symptoms! These tips will help your dog deal with pain but you must visit the vet! Consult your vet before buying any kind of medicine! There are certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that offer relief from joint pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Rimadyl, Etodolac or Previcox will help with the pain but there are also glucocorticoids such as Prednisone that do the trick. If NSAIDs and glucocorticoids fail, look for analgesics or pain relievers. As always, consult your vet before administering any medications.
Home Environment
Another good way to help your dog cope with joint pain is to adjust the home environment. Since a dog suffering from severe joint pain has a hard time walking or basically doing anything, you'll want to provide it with soft supportive cushions and beddings. These are really good for achy joints. Use a ramp to help your dog get in and out of a car or on a bed, put down a few carpets and rugs to help it get traction while walking. It isn't hard but it sure means a lot to your dog.
It is awful to see your best friend suffer. However, things like arthritis and joint pain happen. That's why you need to do everything you can to prevent it, stop it or minimize it! Be supportive and provide your pet with plenty of affection. Your dog will feel so much better!
Zara Lewis is a regular contributor at Highstylife.com and a full time animal lover. Passionate about creating a better world for the generations to come, she is a mum of two, raising them inseparably from their furry family members.