|
|
Arthritis in
Dogs
10 tips that may help your arthritic dog
Dog arthritis is one of the most common
diseases that affect canines, especially large breed dogs
(60-90 lbs). Just as human arthritis, dog arthritis tends to
get worse with age
Here are 10 tips that may help your arthritic dog:
Slip-free Flooring
Hardwood and tile floors are slippery and can be
very difficult for dogs with arthritis to move around.
Placing carpet or area rugs will help secure your dog's
footing. This can help prevent your dog from slipping and
getting injured.
A Soft Bed
Soft bedding can help support your dog's bones
and joints and make 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.
Ramps or Cubes
Stairs and furniture can become difficult
obstacles for your aging companion. Ramps or specially
designed cubes can help pets safely climb stairs, get into
or out of bed or get in
and out of your vehicle. Ramps can be made of plastic or
wood and are available from many pet catalogs. A new product
called "Puppy Stairs" are soft modular cubes that fit
together in combinations that permit pets to climb up or
down from beds or sofas. These cubes are made of soft
rubber, have rounded corners and washable covers.
Medication.
Various medications are available that can help your dog
feel better. Medications include drugs such as Deramaxx®,
Rimadyl® or Etogesic®. These drugs are classified as
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and work to suppress
inflammation and pain. Other medications such as Cosequin®
can also be beneficial by providing your dog's body with
necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. See
your veterinarian to discuss if any of these medications
could benefit your dog.
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. Your dog may want to join in the
festivities regardless of the discomfort. To reduce joint
pain and inflammation, you may want to limit your arthritic
dog's time as the center of attention.
Massage
By massaging your dog, you can increase his or
her flexibility, circulation, calmness and a general sense
of wellness. Professional animal massage therapists are
available to provide your pet a more thorough treatment.
Weight Control and Dietary Therapy
Arthritis is more of a problem in obese pets.
Weight loss can be beneficial by reducing the workload on
your dog's bones and joints. In addition to basic weight
loss, there are diets formulated for dogs with arthritis
that may be beneficial for your dog. Diets, such as Hills®
Science Diet® j/d(tm) and Purina® JM Joint Mobility(tm) have
been shown to help dogs with arthritis maintain weight,
reduce pain and improve mobility.
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 your dog's muscles and
ligaments thus reducing your dog's injury potential and
risk.
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 your arthritic dog if needed or
just give your pet the extra time to get around.
Grooming
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. Follow these top 10 tips, and you'll be
able to keep your arthritic dog living longer, stronger,
happier and healthier.
About the Author:
With her PetPlace.com columns, Dog safety and health expert,
Dr. Debra Primovic has helped thousands of dog owners keep
their http://www.petplace.com/dogs.aspx dogs living longer
and stronger. For more information, check out http://www.petplace.com/
for 8,000+ veterinarian approved articles guaranteed to keep
you from compromising the care of your dog.
Copyright Debra Primovic - http://www.petplace.com/dogs.aspx
|
