How Can I Help My Dog Suffering From Arthritis?
Dog owners know how energetic their pets are. These lovable animals are always on the go. Some dogs would even retain their puppy-like exuberance into adulthood. Dogs though similar to their human friends also suffer from degenerative diseases. Achy muscles and sore joints are common complaints of older people. We feel the aches and pains whenever we move so that getting up especially on chilly mornings would be too much of an effort. These movement difficulties that are viewed as signs of old age can actually be symptoms of arthritis. Dogs are affected by aching muscles and sore joints as well. Arthritis is a common health concern of dogs.
A dog may suffer from inflammatory or from degenerative arthritis. This extremely painful and uncomfortable disease is commonly caused by the weakening of bones associated with old age. A traumatic injury or infection can cause joint instability. Obesity is considered as one of the causes of arthritis as considerable pressure is delivered to the joints because of the excessive weight.
Similar to people with arthritis, an arthritic dog’s mobility is as well impaired because of muscle pains and sore joints. Because the symptoms of arthritis in humans is the same as in canine arthritis, a pet owner would have an idea how the pet feels. The impaired mobility of the pet is one good sign that the dog has this degenerative disease. Being very energetic animals, dogs would not walk if they can run. An arthritic dog’s movements will be hampered by stiff joints thus the pet would not only limp but would also have difficulties in climbing stairs. The pain causes the dog to run a temperature.
A vet consult is necessary so that appropriate treatment will be given to the pet. Pain medications will alleviate the discomfort of the pet but most anti inflammatory and steroidal drugs have side effects. Acupuncture and surgery are other options a dog owner can take to help a pet suffering from the discomfort associated with arthritis.
TLC must be given to pet weighed down with the pain associated with arthritis. It is necessary to gently urge the dog to exercise to maintain joint flexibility. The best thing a pet owner can do is to make the arthritic pet comfortable. An orthopedic bed or a well padded one will give the dog a good nights rest. Massage is proven effective in reducing the discomfort of arthritic people thus a massage will be good for your pet too. It is a good opportunity to bond with the pet as well.
Sarah’s Dogs has more answers to questions about dog arthritis as well as information about first aid for dogs.
