Arthritis occurs when you have inflammation of the joints. When a dog gets older their joints will swell and become stiff and painful. Previous injuries to such as torn ligaments can cause this problem. You will know if your dog has arthritis as they have trouble getting up from lying down, are not as willing to jump or even go for walks.
Some ways in which you can manage arthritis are:
Weight control: - Ensure that your dog is the correct weight for their breed and age. As the owner, you have control over what you feed your dog. Feed quality food in an amount appropriate for your dog's size, breed and activity level and keep treats to a minimum; your dog should be able to maintain an ideal weight. If your dog is overweight, seek the suggestion of your veterinarian regarding low calorie dog food and an exercise program.
Regular exercise: Ensure that your dog gets regular exercise in short sessions. Warm the muscles before exercising. Daily exercise will ensure that their joints stay limber and they maintain their correct weight.
Exercise that provides good range of motion and muscle building as well as limiting wear and tear on the joints is best. Leash walks, swimming, walking on treadmills, and slow jogging are excellent low-impact exercises. Keep in mind that whatever exercise program you select it should be individualized for each dog based on the severity of the arthritis, his weight, age, and physical condition. If in doubt consult with your veterinarian regarding an exercise program appropriate for your dog.
Sleeping areas: Cold and damp weather will aggravate the symptoms, keeping your dog warm, with a pet sweater and keep the temperature in the house a bit warmer. Sleeping areas: Beds with dome-shaped, orthopedic foam distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on joints. They are also much easier for the pet to get out of. Place the bed in a warm spot away from drafts.
Massage therapy: Your vet can show you how to execute physical therapy and massage on your dog to help relax stiff muscles and encourage a good range of motion in the joints. Remember, your dog is in pain, so start slowly and build trust. Begin by petting the area and work up to gently kneading the muscles around the joint with your fingertips using small, circular motions. Gradually work your way out to the surrounding muscles.
Daily routine: Climbing stairs becomes difficult for arthritic dogs; it can make going outside to urinate and defecate extremely hard. You can make or purchase a ramp which will make going into the garden or car much easier for your dog.
Dogs don't need to suffer greatly from arthritis, there are many things as a dog owner you can do to help them manage their pain. - 16887
Some ways in which you can manage arthritis are:
Weight control: - Ensure that your dog is the correct weight for their breed and age. As the owner, you have control over what you feed your dog. Feed quality food in an amount appropriate for your dog's size, breed and activity level and keep treats to a minimum; your dog should be able to maintain an ideal weight. If your dog is overweight, seek the suggestion of your veterinarian regarding low calorie dog food and an exercise program.
Regular exercise: Ensure that your dog gets regular exercise in short sessions. Warm the muscles before exercising. Daily exercise will ensure that their joints stay limber and they maintain their correct weight.
Exercise that provides good range of motion and muscle building as well as limiting wear and tear on the joints is best. Leash walks, swimming, walking on treadmills, and slow jogging are excellent low-impact exercises. Keep in mind that whatever exercise program you select it should be individualized for each dog based on the severity of the arthritis, his weight, age, and physical condition. If in doubt consult with your veterinarian regarding an exercise program appropriate for your dog.
Sleeping areas: Cold and damp weather will aggravate the symptoms, keeping your dog warm, with a pet sweater and keep the temperature in the house a bit warmer. Sleeping areas: Beds with dome-shaped, orthopedic foam distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on joints. They are also much easier for the pet to get out of. Place the bed in a warm spot away from drafts.
Massage therapy: Your vet can show you how to execute physical therapy and massage on your dog to help relax stiff muscles and encourage a good range of motion in the joints. Remember, your dog is in pain, so start slowly and build trust. Begin by petting the area and work up to gently kneading the muscles around the joint with your fingertips using small, circular motions. Gradually work your way out to the surrounding muscles.
Daily routine: Climbing stairs becomes difficult for arthritic dogs; it can make going outside to urinate and defecate extremely hard. You can make or purchase a ramp which will make going into the garden or car much easier for your dog.
Dogs don't need to suffer greatly from arthritis, there are many things as a dog owner you can do to help them manage their pain. - 16887
About the Author:
Having a dog of her own for 16 years Gloria understands the needs of older dogs therefore she created an online shop that caters for older dogs with orthopedic dog beds and cool dog beds.
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