Arthritis refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint. The cause can be abnormal bone or joint development, instability of the surrounding ligaments and tendons, damage or injury to the joint, an infection, or injury caused by the immune system. While anti-inflammatory medicines are popular treatments for arthritis, another approach involves protecting the cartilage in the joint and "nourishing" the joint.
Here are tips that may help your arthritic dog.
Slip-free Flooring. Hardwood and tile are slippery and can be very difficult for dogs with arthritis to navigate. Placing carpet or area rugs will help secure your dog's footing. This can help prevent him from slipping and injuring himself. Glucosamine for dogs
Swimming is a good aerobic exercise and is especially good for arthritis symptom dogs because there is no jarring impact. As swimming is a non-weight bearing activity.
It exercises every muscle of the body without any stress. When swimming, muscles and joints are able to move through a complete range of motion without bearing any weight.
Swimming in warm water has the added benefit of relaxing muscles (specially important for arthritis symptom dogs) and increasing overall blood circulation. Warm water relaxes muscles so the dog will not feel pain when exercising, thus improving joint lubrication. Older dogs have the added benefit of cardiovascular strengthening and weight loss, improving general fitness.
Your dog should use all four legs to doggie paddle. If he paddles with just his front paws, lift his rear legs to help him float. He'll quickly understand that he needs all four of his legs to swim.
Daily, low-impact exercise helps to improve strength and stamina, joint mobility, and stimulates joint cartilage metabolism.
While helping maintain your dog's weight, it also decreases the need for pain-relieving medications.
A Soft Bed. Soft bedding and heated beds can help support the bones and joints, making your pet more comfortable. This can be especially important in thin dogs in which bony prominences are likely to rub on hard surfaces. Some beds are made especially for dogs with arthritis, such as waterbeds, hammock beds, and beds with plenty of extra cushion. Our new Durabed may be right for your older do.
Grooming should not be neglected, especially in the older dog. Arthritic dogs have a difficult time keeping themselves clean, especially in those hard to reach areas. Help your dog stay clean by trimming the hair around the rear end. Brushing will help remove mats and tangles, which can injure delicate older skin. Keep eyes & ears clean, also.
Peace & Quiet. As your dog ages, he may not be as tolerant or patient as he used to be. Sore joints make it difficult for your pet to enjoy rambunctious playful children. Supervise playtime and consider keeping your dog away from very young children. Even parties and holiday time can be distressing for an arthritic dog. He may want to join in the festivities regardless of the discomfort. To reduce joint pain and inflammation, you may want to limit his time as the center of attention.
Massage. Massage can increase flexibility, circulation, calmness and a general sense of wellness. Professional animal massage therapists are available to provide your pet a more thorough treatment.
Weight Loss. Arthritis is more of a problem in obese pets. Weight loss can be beneficial by helping to reduce the workload on the bones and joints.
Exercise. Modest daily exercise can help some dogs. Special care is needed, so it is important to first see your veterinarian, who can recommend an appropriate exercise program. Exercise can strengthen the muscles and ligaments thus reducing the potential and risk of injury.
Supplements. There are many products on the market that can be used in addition to a good diet.
Extra Time. Don't rush a dog with arthritis. It often takes them extra time to walk, climb stairs or get in and out of the car. Support and help them if needed or just give them extra time to get around.
Mary E. Joyce http://www.pet-dog-cat-supply-store.com
quick home cleaning Glenview ..Let me begin by saying that I am not an... Read More
Gone are the days of boring bird cages. Today's bird... Read More
A poorly trained dog is a nuisance and can even... Read More
You want your dog to swim?We're going to try to... Read More
Many dogs today suffer from itchy skin caused by a... Read More
I'd like to talk to you about pet vaccinations. I... Read More
It is important to choose a sugar glider breeder carefully.... Read More
Your dog's dental health is so important for his total... Read More
Dog Shock CollarsDog shock collars are a touchy subject among... Read More
There are headstrong dogs that know too well that a... Read More
Moving is about as stressful a time as any in... Read More
It has been said that everything old is new again.... Read More
Let's say you've made up your mind on the breed... Read More
Dogs are creatures of habit; and once they develop a... Read More
Piranhas are unique creatures that have gained popularity not just... Read More
In compiling some information on achieving a proper fit to... Read More
Buying dog doors onlineIf you need to buy a dog... Read More
This is an old saying that many of us have... Read More
The first thing to do when searching for a lost... Read More
Dog Training CollarsHaving a pet means having to provide for... Read More
Are there so many great dog breeds out there that... Read More
Even with the best care, cats can become ill. Sometimes... Read More
Dog training can provide a tremendous amount of satisfaction. Every... Read More
Small dog breeds are great pets, but since their personalities... Read More
This mysterious cat is originally from the country of Siam,... Read More
scheduled maid service Winnetka ..What kind of materials should you use when constructing a... Read More
Puppy CarePuppy care can be a lot of work, but... Read More
Annual Vaccinations for Your Dog?Are they really necessary? - In... Read More
Keeping your dog safe is similar to keeping a child... Read More
I'd like to talk to you about pet vaccinations. I... Read More
Dog Training CollarsHaving a pet means having to provide for... Read More
As all cat owners know, a feline can be a... Read More
It was November and I had spent 3 months searching... Read More
Unfortunately, there are a number of household items which we... Read More
Ever had a hankering for a certain breed of dog?... Read More
There are many of us who consider our pets as... Read More
Betta fish, also called Siamese fighting fish are one of... Read More
What is Canine Infectious Hepatitis?The word hepatitis refers to an... Read More
When we talk about hypoallergenic dogs, we mean that they... Read More
Your dog's health is a very important part of overall... Read More
This has been one of the most rewarding adventures I... Read More
Chocolate. Who can resist it?Your dogs health depends on it!... Read More
I would like to write a few words about my... Read More
Does the idea of trimming your dog's nails send chills... Read More
Pug puppies make wonderful pets. Pugs are very affectionate and... Read More
Believe it or not boutiques for dogs are everywhere. Nowadays,... Read More
Training a dog is a fairly difficult task. Some find... Read More
One of the most common causes of Feline Urinary Tract... Read More
What is Separation Anxiety?When you leave the house, it is... Read More
Problems with Commercial Flea Killers & TraditionalFlea Bite Treatments***Chemicals that... Read More
Pet |