How To Help A Dog With Arthritis?

Dog owners know how energetic their pets are

Dog owners know how energetic their pets are. Dogs are constantly on the move. It can be noticed that adult dogs would have the high spirits of puppies. Dogs, similar to their human friends are afflicted with degenerative diseases too. People start to feel muscle and joint pains as they mature. Muscle pains and aching joints will be felt with each movement and getting up would be grueling especially on chilly mornings. These conditions are often assumed as signs of old age but the sore joints and aching muscles that makes moving difficult are symptoms of arthritis. Dogs are affected by aching muscles and sore joints as well. Arthritis is a common problem as it afflicts about 25% of dogs in the US.

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.

Symptoms of canine arthritis is very similar to what arthritic people feels. Although dogs cannot speak about how they feel a discerning owner will know that the pet is not well. The reduced agility, the reluctance to move are signs that the dog is suffering from arthritis. Dog are highly energetic thus man's best friends would rather run than walk. A dog suffering from arthritis would limp; have difficulties in climbing stairs or getting up after lying down because of stiff joints. Often times the dog will have fever because of the pain.

Undoubtedly, a vet's proper management will be necessary to alleviate the pet's discomfort. Anti-inflamatory drugs and steroids are commonly prescribed but these medications often comes with side effects. Acupuncture and surgery are other options that a dog owner can take to lessen the discomfort of the pet.

To help the pet an owner has to give the pet more TLC. It is necessary to gently urge the dog to exercise to maintain joint flexibility. To help the ailing pet, a dog owner must ensure that it is comfortable. A well padded elevated bed will ensure the comfort of the pet. Similar to people with arthritis, the dog too would benefit from massage as it is a proven method of alleviating pain. Massaging the dog would an ideal opportunity to bond with the pet.

by: Jerry Welsh

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