As your dog ages, it will become more susceptible to illnesses and accidents, and the amount of care it needs will increase. Pet insurance companies like Bivvy help you cover the expenses of diagnostic treatment, hereditary conditions, and even prescription medication. Like humans, dogs go through a series of changes as they age. For example, one of the most common cases is that the cartilage on the surface of its joints gets thinner, which makes it prone to arthritis. Awareness of this subject will help your dog remain happy and healthy.
Arthritis is a common concern among bigger and older dogs. The lack of proper cushioning is a vital aspect that leads to the canines ending up with such a condition. The bones rubbing against each other is a painful and uncomfortable experience. It can result in the formation of a new bone and thereby increasing the difficulty of your pet’s movement.
There is no known cure for this progressive disease of the dogs. However, choosing a few lifestyle changes can help manage the disease.
Story Stages
What Causes Dog Arthritis?
Multiple factors can contribute to your pet’s damaged cartilage and joints, which include:
- Age – an aging dog tends to develop arthritis as its joints start becoming weak due to prolonged usage
- Injuries – chances of arthritis increase due to damages to cartilages and joints. It can be the result of fractures and ruptured ligaments as well.
- Weight and size – Heavy and large dogs are prone to arthritis. The accumulation of higher weight puts pressure on the joints. It speeds up the deterioration of the joints.
- Genetics – Genetically, some dogs have a higher tendency to develop arthritis because of their body development and structure.
Signs to Identify Arthritis
If you ever wonder whether your pet is suffering from arthritis or not, the following signs can help you understand:
- Difficulty in getting up
- Lethargic movement
- Sudden weight gain
- Behavioral changes, including irritation
- Loss of energy
- Feeling of pain with touch
If your dog has any of these symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
How to Help them?
If you are wondering how to cure a progressive disease that does not have a fixed remedy, you will find the following information useful. There are non-invasive alternatives that can help your dog get rid of the discomfort and pain.
A Healthy Weight Maintenance
Weight has a vital role to play in maintaining your pet’s joint health. You can opt for one of the numerous food options available at pet pharmacies like PetCareRx. These specialized diet plans can help take care of their weight and relieve the stress on their joints.
Ensuring Proper Nutrition
Avoiding artificial additives and opting for foods with natural ingredients can help get rid of inflammation. You can include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in their diet plan too.
Keep Them Active
Dogs with arthritis are generally reluctant to move, but ensuring they get the minimum exercise every day is crucial. It can be playing hide and seek, walking, or swimming. All of these are moderate to light exercises that benefit their joints.
Make a Pet-Friendly Home
You can make a few adjustments in your home to make your pet with arthritis comfortable. It can include providing them with a warm and comfortable place to sleep. Helping them with food and water bowls at easily reachable locations can also ease their pain.
Natural Remedies
The best medications for arthritis are using natural cures. However, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian to get the most effective treatment. Alternatively, you can check a few other options listed below.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol is a chemical compound used to reduce your pet’s arthritis. It is an effective compound derived from medical marijuana for pain management. It can also help treat conditions like anxiety, seizures, or cancer.
CBD can also act as an anti-inflammatory agent and increase canine comfort with appropriate dosage.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy or rehabilitation can do wonders for your dog coping with arthritis. Therapy exercises can be of great help for dogs struggling with degenerative joint disease. Physical therapy strengthens your dog’s muscles, improves mobility, and reduces pain.
Hands-on techniques include stretching and massaging the joints. Light exercises and movements can help reduce pain and improve the flexibility of the affected areas. It can also promote better blood flow to your pet’s limbs.
Acupuncture
Introducing your dog to acupuncture treatment can be one move to tackle arthritis. Your veterinarian will use needles by placing them at specific locations on your dog’s body to stimulate the healing process. This treatment helps the muscles to relax and increases blood flow.
Regular acupuncture treatments can help your dog manage their arthritis pain easily.
Will It Work?
So, as you can see, arthritis is not a completely curable disease, but you can keep your pet happy and comfortable with a few simple steps. If you know the different treatments available, you can help them have a better life.
