It tugs at your heart when your pet is in pain. You want to help him or her feel better immediately. Fortunately, there are quite a few remedies for the aches and pains associated with dog arthritis.
What can you do to help your dog
First, your attention should definitely be directed to taking your dog in for regular checkups with the vet. The vet is going to want to monitor your dog’s arthritis so that adjustments can be made when it comes to treatment.
Is your dog overweight?
Helping your pet to slim down can certainly provide extra relief to his or her joints. Focus on high-quality food and the right portions.
Dogs also need exercise. A soft surface is going to be best for their little paws, and your vet may have suggestions based on your dog and his or her lifestyle. Just like with humans, damp and cold weather can cause symptoms of arthritis to flare up in dogs. You want to keep your dog dry and warm. Padded dog beds are a great solution, and warm compresses can even be used for joint relief as well.
Vets can point you to a massage therapist as well. Regular massages can help to increase a dog’s mobility and flexibility. There are also certain medications that can be prescribed to help relieve arthritis pain. Naturally, you want to involve your vet prior to giving your dog NSAIDs or any other joint meds for dogs.
Supplements
Glucosamine chondroitin is a popular joint supplement that is as good for pets as it is for humans. You can order dog joint supplements online. You might even consider acupuncture for your dog as well. This type of therapy is painless, and it has shown promising results with some dogs.
Advanced arthritis can sometimes call for surgical procedures. There are pros and cons to choosing surgery, and you need to have the right expectations.
Make environmental adjustments at home for your dog, too. Consider the right floorings, rugs, bedding materials and more. There are even doggy ramps for beds and vehicles. There are all kinds of things you can do to help your dog sooth and eliminate symptoms associated with arthritis.
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