Tips & Techniques to Comfort Your Arthritic Dog

Easy, economical ways to pamper your ailing pet

Arthritic dogs require extra care and attention. Explore numerous ideas for reducing pain, increasing mobility, and improving your pooch's overall well-being.

Dogs suffering from arthritis require more than just the standard level of attention and maintenance-to ensure their health and happiness, they need some extra helpings of TLC. Nothing tugs at a pet owner's heartstrings more than seeing their animal struggling to get around while stoically enduring physical pain. Fortunately, there are some easy things you can do to help make your arthritic dog's condition more bearable:

• Keep your dog indoors on cold, wet days. Anyone who's suffered from arthritis knows that inclement weather can exacerbate joint pain. If you must venture out into chilly or rainy conditions, be sure to wrap your dog in a pet sweater or coat.
• Invest in an orthopedic bed for your pooch. These therapeutic pads use egg-carton-shaped foam to distribute your dog's weight evenly and to reduce joint pressure. Some versions even offer built-in heating for additional comfort.
• When it comes to easing joint pain, a heating pad or hot water bottle can work wonders. Just be sure not to turn it up too high or apply the heat for too long, as this poses a potential burning hazard. Vets recommend applying heat for 10-15 minutes, two to three times a day.
• Try your hand at pet massage. This soothing technique doesn't require any special training-just rub in a gentle, circular motion on and around the swollen joint.
• Invest in elevated feeders. Raised holders for food and water bowls prevent your ailing dog from having to stoop down to eat and drink, which can be painful for pooches with stiff necks or shoulders.
• Use pet ramps for situations when your pet needs to jump in and out of a car, a favorite sofa or chair, or a swimming pool. They can also be placed on short staircases to facilitate climbing and descending. Ramps are an excellent way for arthritic dogs to retain their mobility.
• Warm water can be extremely soothing for dogs suffering from arthritis. A heated pool, warm pond or lake, or even the bathtub can serve as a fun form of therapy.
• If you have non-carpeted floors in your home, scatter a few area rugs around the house to help your dog maintain secure footing.
• Pay special attention to diet. Overweight dogs have more pressure on their joints, which can worsen pain. Rest is another important factor-be sure your dog is getting plenty of sleep and relaxation.

In addition to these everyday aids and techniques, many veterinarians recommend relieving pain with medications. Some common treatments for canine arthritis include:

• Glucosamine: This all-natural amino sugar promotes the creation of synovial fluid, which lubricates your pet's aching joints and preserves the remaining cartilage to prevent future deterioration. Vets recommend administering glucosamine in a liquid form, combined with such additives as chrondroitin, bromelain, boswellin, Omega 3, and Omega 6.
• Rimadyl (carprofen): This NSAID is highly effective for pain relief, although it has been linked to potentially serious side effects. Use it with caution, and only after speaking with a licensed veterinarian.
• Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan): This injection is administered twice a week for four weeks.
• Palaprin6: This anti-inflammatory buffered aspirin is designed for canine use.

Whether you opt for a physical aid, a joint supplement, or a combination of both, there is an abundance of ways you can help to reduce the impact of degenerative joint disease on your dog's life.

Be sure to visit our trusted friends Drs. Foster & Smith and Only Natural Pet to buy products mentioned here.

We hope you find better living for your dog, natually.
John & Heidi Walsh
Pet lovers for over 20 years.