How to care for a senior dog with arthritis?
Waino White
2025-08-08 17:12:03
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: 10
Exercise can reduce pain and stiffness, moving the joints actually produces synovial fluid which lubricates your pet’s joints. The ASPCA recommends daily walks for arthritic dogs. Two to three 15-20 minute walks a day will be beneficial. You don’t want to overdo it. Another low-impact activity is swimming, if your dog likes to swim and you have a place for him to do so, swimming will help increase mobility too. You may be able to ease your dog’s pain and slow down the progression of arthritis with supplements and medications. If your pet is in a lot of pain, your veterinarian may prescribe an anti-inflammatory for your dog. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, even a little extra weight can make a big difference when it comes to pressure on the joints. Every extra pound on your dog is equal to 20 extra pounds on you. Supports such as dog ramps/steps, orthopedic beds, and raised dog bowls can also help your dog get to where he wants to go without risking injury and make everyday activities easier.
Roxane Bernier
2025-08-08 15:47:31
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: 19
Help at home can make life easier for your arthritic dog, using ramps to get into the car, restricting the times your dog needs to use stairs, and providing a thick comfortable sleeping spot. Exercise strengthens the muscles that support joints, and moderate amounts of low-impact exercise also improve mobility. Exercise should be little and often, as too much exercise or high-impact exercise may cause your dog’s joints to become more painful. Hydrotherapy is a good way to provide low-impact exercise for your arthritic dog in a safe and warm environment. All dogs with arthritis benefit from being a healthy weight, and losing even 10% of their bodyweight can have visible results on their arthritis. Some dogs with arthritis do not need any medication or supplements at all, and are simply managed with changes to diet, exercise and home routine. In more painful cases, dogs may need extra help to be comfortable, which may include supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other treatments. Lifestyle changes and medication are the most common treatments for arthritis. Weight control is also important, and Vets4Pets clinics will be able to support you with dieting your dog, with weigh-ins and advice on food and exercise appropriate for your dog.
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