Age weakens a dog’s bones. As they age, the cartilage that serves as a cushion between the joints begins to thin, and this marks the beginning of arthritis.
Studies show that dogs aged eight years or more usually exhibit signs of arthritis. But at times, even one-year-old dogs can develop arthritis.
It depends on their genes, diet, and lifestyle. If your dog hasn’t developed arthritis yet, you’re lucky.
If bad luck has struck your little pup, read along to make its life as easy and enjoyable as you can.
How to Manage Arthritis in Dogs?
Given that your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis or you notice symptoms of arthritis, it’s a good idea to implement these measures:
Block Stairways
Stairs are bad for dogs with arthritis. When they move up or down the stairs, they stress the weakening joints and bones. Consequently, it can further develop the pain caused by arthritis. And in severe cases, it may lead to fractures. Hence, you should block the stairways, especially when you’re not supervising your dog’s movements.
Arrange Orthopedic Dog Beds
Orthopedic dog beds are extra comfy. They have additional cushioning, such that they support the hips, elbows, and other crucial areas more than the rest of the body. Overall, your dog will feel cradled and won’t be able to feel the floor through the bed.
Orthopedic dog beds are extra comfy. They have additional cushioning, such that they support the hips, elbows, and other crucial areas more than the rest of the body. Overall, your dog will feel cradled and won’t be able to feel the floor through the bed.
Note that these beds can be a bit more expensive than the normal ones.
Arrange Non-Slip Rugs
Non-slip rugs are rubber mats. These often come equipped with toe grips. You can place these on entrances or in the wet zones of the house. These will keep your dog from falling and multiplying their arthritis pain and problems. It protects your dog from potential injuries.
How to Treat Arthritis in Dogs?
Before you read any further, know that arthritis is not completely curable. You can manage and ease the pain, but you cannot eliminate it entirely.
Here are a few medical measures you can take to manage your dog’s arthritis:
Medications & Injections for arthritis in dogs
Medically, you can give NSAIDS or Adequan injections for arthritis in your dog to ease their joint pain. Both of these are approved and recommended by expert vets. But again, it’s best you consult your vet before taking any measures yourself.
NSAIDs are Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Carprofen and Galliprant). You’ll acquire dosage details from your respective vet.
As for Adequan injections, these are manufactured by Novartis Animal Health. It slows down cartilage destruction in dogs and promotes the healing process. Note that it’s only recommendable to dogs with severe arthritis pain. Once it is injected, the dog can experience relief in only two hours, and its effects last for about three days.
If your dog is beyond therapeutic treatment, your vet may suggest a course of these injects. You’ll have to get him injected with two Adequan injections for 4 weeks.
Best Diets & Supplements for arthritis in dogs
Diet can also help manage your dog’s arthritis pain. Avoid the following in your dog’s diet:
- Grains (rice, soy, etc.)
- Corn
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- Fatty Acids
- Added salts and sugars
And include the following instead:
- Whole foods
- Herbs and spices
- Oils
You can also add supplements like GlycanAid HA and Flexerna Omega to your dog’s daily diet. These supplements inhibit enzymes that destroy joint cartilage and also lubricate the joint, thus easing pain.
