Arthritis and Your Dog Do you know how to tell if your dog has arthritis? Since arthritis manifests itself by causing soreness and stiffness in hips, also shoulders, knees, elbows and the lower spine--if your dog companion is becoming reluctant to climb stairs or jump in or out of the car, more than likely your dog is suffering from arthritis.
These symptoms do resemble the same type of discomfort that we humans can also experience.
As time progresses, some breeds find that they are predisposed to genetic problems and these inflamed joints can lead to structural degeneration, restricted movement, and cartilage damage.
Primary Arthritis is associated with aging and long term overuse.
Secondary Arthritis results from unstable joints, like sublaxating patella, better known as slipping kneecaps in smaller breeds, trauma or bone or cartilage defects.
How To Help Your Dog Cope With Arthritis There are a few things that you can do to help your dog with his arthritic discomfort.
A healthy diet of wholesome foods is very important and keeping his weight down.
An overweight dog stresses his joints, just like a person does who is overweight and arthritic.
Make sure that your dog has a soft surface to sleep on.
Laying on concrete or wood can really make the joints stiffen up.
You can use old quilts or blankets to make a soft bed if you do not want to buy dog bedding.
If he sleeps on the bed with you, you may need to provide a ramp for him to get up and down.
These bed ramps can be purchased, but you can easily construct one yourself.
Make sure it's sturdy for your dogs weight.
Elevate his food and water bowls.
This may not seem important to you, but it can mean a big difference in his comfort level.
As your dog copes with sore joints, he may be reluctant to jump in and out of your car.
If you have an SUV that sits up high, you may need to provide a step up.
Lifting your dog may not be something that you can do comfortably yourself, so making a step up will be helpful for both of you.
More Arthritis Help Try supplements in your dog's diet.
Digestive enzymes can help with this absorption of nutrients and fatty acids in his diet.
These supplements are safe to give and an enhanced digestion may support better mobility.
Natural veterinary experts suggest giving divided doses of Vitamin C to help reduce inflammation of the joints and build collagen.
You can buy capsules and open them and sprinkle over their food or cut the tablets in half.
I have done both, but when I use the tablets, I put a little cream cheese on them.
That makes it very palatable.
Essential fatty acids help to fight swelling, lubricate bones, ligaments and joints.
Many supplements are made with your dog's condition in mind--these are based on the same products made for humans.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate are two very popular joint support supplements for people and animals, as well.
Methylsulfonylmethane or MSM powder is another great supplement for arthritis symptoms.
Cosequin DS is an excellent product for your dog if arthritis, hip dysplacia or other joint problems are affecting his/her health.
There are many anti-inflammatory herbal combinations, also, like enzymes such as bromelain, and other natural herbal ingredients for dogs with arthritis.
Considering diet--remember that red meat is VERY high in uric acid, which is a main contributor to many arthritic conditions.
If your dog is on a mainly red meat diet, you should consider gradually shifting to a dietmostly of chicken.
(If you have arthritis, this change in diet might also help you.
Think about it!) Today, there are many holistic veterinarians.
Perhaps, you can locate one close to your home for Homepathic care.
If there's no one available, you may want to search the Internet for information.
There is help for your pet.
Last, but certainly not least, be sure to pet your dog.
This means so much to him and massage can help relieve pain.
So much of this advice can be applied to humans and pets.
We are so very closely related when it comes to arthritis pain.