Caring For An Elderly or Arthritic Pet
When your pooch's favoured scamper turns into a rigid trot, rising from the cosy bed is now followed by a moan and a grumble, and dashing up the stairs seems like an insurmountable task. These will all be relatable situations for owners of senior dogs. Your greatest wish is simply to alleviate the discomfort and witness your faithful friend frolic once more. While there is no magic remedy for the natural process of ageing or arthritic joints, there are a few steps you can take to ease some of the discomfort your dog may experience.
It's crucial to make frequent visits to the vets and adhere to any treatment plan your vet prescribes. In conversation with your vet, inquire if your dog would be a suitable candidate for hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy involves the use of water to exercise and mobilise joints, shown to alleviate and even halt the symptoms of arthritis. Additionally, it's worth discussing the prescription of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if you perceive your dog to be in pain.
Glucosamine supports your dog's body in generating cartilage within the joints. As dogs age, their bodies degrade cartilage faster than it can be produced. This depletion of cartilage is the cause of arthritis and joint pain. You can procure glucosamine supplements from most pet health shops. Lastly, ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight alleviates the stress on the joints, potentially offering immediate pain relief and enhancing their mobility. If you have concerns that your dog is significantly overweight, for effective weight loss, consult your veterinary surgery. Most surgeries run complimentary weight clinics to assist owners with pet obesity.
