Be your dog's best friend
The medical care of arthritis in dogs has advanced rapidly in recent years. Some even say it exceeds the treatment of arthritis in humans, and with a little action on your part, there is every reason to expect that your dog can be comfortable in later life.
Here are some things you can do to help;
Control Weight
- Being overweight can put extra strain on your dog's joints so keeping his/her weight down is helpful.
- If your dog is overweight ask your vet for help in planning a weight reduction programme.
- Bear in mind that if your dog has poor joints you may not succeed in getting your dog to 'walk off' any excess food intake, so a reduction in food is usually necessary.
Provide the right kind of exercise
- Regular, GENTLE exercise is a real help as it helps prevent the joints from stiffening up and maintains mobility so your dog can remain active.
- Dogs with poor joints should avoid very energetic exercise such as chasing a ball in the park.
- Your vet can help you work out the most suitable exercise schedule for your particular dog.
Consider alternative methods of exercise
- Hydrotherapy is becoming more common for exercising dogs with arthritis. This involves purpose built pools that allow safe, carefully controlled swimming.
- Swimming helps to build up muscle mass, which is useful for supporting joints. It is a low impact form of exercise so it won't aggravate your dog's joint pain.
- Your vet will know a centre where such a service is available.
Consult your vet
- If your dog does have painful arthritis your vet may recommend treatment with an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug).
- NSAIDs are very effective at reducing the pain and stiffness that your dog may suffer from and will greatly improve his/her quality of life.
Consider joint support supplements
- Your vet may suggest you use a joint supplement; this nutritional support can help maintain normal function in joints and tendons.
- For more information on joint support supplements, please visit www.seraquin.co.uk
