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Caring For Your Senior Dog:
Top 10 Tips To Help Your Arthritic Dog by Debra Primovic
Dog arthritis is one of the most common diseases that affect canines,
especially large breed dogs (60-90 lbs). Just as human arthritis, dog
arthritis tends to get worse with age.
Here are 10 tips that may help your arthritic dog:
1. Slip-free Flooring. Hardwood and tile floors are slippery and can be
very difficult for dogs with arthritis to move around. Placing carpet or
area rugs will help secure your dog's footing. This can help prevent your
dog from slipping and getting injured.
2. A Soft Bed. Soft bedding can help support your dog’s bones and joints
and make your pet more comfortable. This can be especially important in
thin dogs in which bony prominences are likely to rub on hard surfaces.
Some beds are made especially for dogs with arthritis, such as waterbeds,
hammock beds, and beds with plenty of extra cushion.
3. Ramps or Cubes. Stairs and furniture can become difficult obstacles for
your aging companion. Ramps or specially designed cubes can help pets
safely climb stairs, get into or out of bed or get in and out of your
vehicle. Ramps can be made of plastic or wood and are available from many
pet catalogs. A new product called "Puppy Stairs" are soft modular cubes
that fit together in combinations that permit pets to climb up or down
from beds or sofas. These cubes are made of soft rubber, have rounded
corners and washable covers.
4. Medication. Various medications are available that can help your dog
feel better. Medications include drugs such as Deramaxx®, Rimadyl® or
Etogesic®. These drugs are classified as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs and work to suppress inflammation and pain. Other medications such
as Cosequin® can also be beneficial by providing your dog’s body with
necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. See your
veterinarian to discuss if any of these medications could benefit your
dog.
5. Peace & Quiet. As your dog ages, he may not be as tolerant or patient
as he used to be. Sore joints make it difficult for your pet to enjoy
rambunctious playful children. Supervise playtime and consider keeping
your dog away from very young children. Even parties and holiday time can
be distressing for an arthritic dog. Your dog may want to join in the
festivities regardless of the discomfort. To reduce joint pain and
inflammation, you may want to limit your arthritic dog’s time as the
center of attention.
6. Massage. By massaging your dog, you can increase his or her
flexibility, circulation, calmness and a general sense of wellness.
Professional animal massage therapists are available to provide your pet a
more thorough treatment.
7. Weight Control and Dietary Therapy. Arthritis is more of a problem in
obese pets. Weight loss can be beneficial by reducing the workload on your
dog’s bones and joints. In addition to basic weight loss, there are diets
formulated for dogs with arthritis that may be beneficial for your dog.
Diets, such as Hills® Science Diet® j/d™ and Purina® JM Joint Mobility™
have been shown to help dogs with arthritis maintain weight, reduce pain
and improve mobility.
8. Exercise. Modest daily exercise can help some dogs. Special care is
needed, so it is important to first see your veterinarian, who can
recommend an appropriate exercise program. Exercise can strengthen your
dog’s muscles and ligaments thus reducing your dog’s injury potential and
risk.
9. Extra Time. Don't rush a dog with arthritis. It often takes them extra
time to walk, climb stairs or get in and out of the car. Support and help
your arthritic dog if needed or just give your pet the extra time to get
around.
10. Grooming. Grooming should not be neglected, especially in the older
dog. Arthritic dogs have a difficult time keeping themselves clean,
especially in those hard to reach areas. Help your dog stay clean by
trimming the hair around the rear end. Brushing will help remove mats and
tangles, which can injure delicate older skin.
Follow these top 10 tips, and you’ll be able to keep your arthritic dog
living longer, stronger, happier and healthier.
With her PetPlace.com columns, Dog safety and health expert, Dr. Debra
Primovic has helped thousands of dog owners keep their dogs living longer
and stronger. For more information, check out http://www.petplace.com for
8,000+ veterinarian approved articles guaranteed to keep you from
compromising the care of your dog.
Article Source: http://www.animalpetsandfriends.com
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