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Arthritis in dogs is similar to arthritis in humans. As dogs get older, cartilage cells in their joints die and they begin to thin. As this happens, the bones release enzymes and this causes inflammation and an increase in joint fluid. Breeds such as Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, Rottweilers and German shepherds are especially prone to developing arthritis.
Arthritis can be a very uncomfortable and painful condition for your dog. The good news is that once diagnosed, there are many ways you can make life as comfortable as possible for your furry friend. Here are some of the most effective ones.
Buy an Orthopaedic Bed
Source: whole-dog-journal.com
When your dog gets arthritis, it can go through a lot of pain and discomfort. The least you can do is create a safe and comfortable environment around it. One way to do this is to get a comfortable orthopaedic dog bed. This is a bed specially designed for dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia. It relieves any pain in the joints by providing full and even support to the whole body.
They’re most commonly made of memory foam, which is considered the top material for the purpose this bed has. It shapes perfectly around the body and hugs it with comfort and support. Nowadays there are many options on the market and you might get overwhelmed when you search online or go to the store. But overall, there are a few features to look for to get the right one for your dog.
The first thing is to get the right size. If you get one that’s too big, the dog might feel insecure about so much extra space. On the other hand, if you get one that’s too small, the dog will be uncomfortable and feel cramped. Grab a measuring tape and measure your dog’s length from the head to the base of the tail. Also, check how tall it is. Start from the top of the back and go down to its paws.
Check the sizing chart of the manufacturer and choose the appropriate size. If the dog is between sizes, it’s better to go with the bigger one. Also, consider its sleeping position. Is it sleeping curled up or stretched out? This can help you with choosing the right shape for the bed. Another important thing is the material the bed is made of.
Try to avoid materials such as batting, cedar, recycled fibre, egg crate foam, convoluted foam or polyester fibre. They’re not durable and there’s a high chance they’re not orthopaedic. Instead, go for memory foam. Washable covers are also a must. It’ll be much easier for you to clean them and your dog won’t lay in bacteria and dirt.
There are a lot of materials that are machine washable and machine dryable. They may cost a bit more than the rest, but it’s worth the investment. Instead of buying a new cover every 6 months, you’ll need to replace it after a couple of years. It’s a good idea to set a budget before visiting the store. This will help you make a choice and not spend more than you have.
If you’re not sure what to buy, you can consult with the vet. They’ll know what your dog needs best and can guide you to your choice. They may suggest a bed with bolsters. They can be a great addition to the dog’s comfort but also a way for them to feel secure inside the bed. Another good alternative is a vet bed. Together with the orthopaedic one, they’re at the top of the list for comfort and support.
Create a Safe Environment
Areas such as slippery floors and stairs can be hard to move on for a dog with arthritis. There are several ways you can make its movement around the house easier. First, lay down several non-slip mats on uncovered areas. This includes rugs, yoga mats, runners or even mats you use in the bathtub.
This will prevent slipping and straining of the muscles and joints. If you see that the dog has trouble reaching the plates with food or water, elevate them to a suitable height. Also, make sure they’re above a non-slippery surface because any spills can cause slips and falls.
Regular nail trimming is very important because it provides a more stable walk. Use ramps for the dog to walk into the car or get in and out of the bed. And if you don’t want the dog to go up the stairs, you can buy baby gates to block these areas.
Get Braces
Source: handicappedpets.com
The canine hip braces are specially made to assist dogs with arthritis. They offer stability and support and reduce pressure on the joints similar to orthopaedic dog beds. Of course, less pressure equals less pain and inflammation. The hip and lower back are stabilised and are more mobile. This leads to muscle toning and makes the dogs feel comfortable while walking, running or doing any activity.
Stick to a Healthy Diet
It’s possible for devoted dog owners to unintentionally overfeed their pets. After all, it can be difficult to ignore those beseeching puppy dog eyes. However, feeding your dog to show them you care may end up doing more harm than good, particularly if they have arthritis. Keeping up a healthy weight can put less pressure on the joints which means more mobility and less pain.
Almost all of the foods in pet stores are wholesome and have the right balance of vitamins, minerals and other essentials your dog needs. You should always read the label to see if the food is made for puppies, senior dogs, dogs with health problems or overweight dogs. If your dog is overweight, consult with the vet and find the best possible food that has fewer calories.
The vet may put the dog on a diet and restrict some type of food or how often the dog eats. You can also find a dog nutritionist that will supervise and control the calorie and nutrient intake for every day. Just as with humans, food is an important part of the dog’s life and getting the right quantity and quality is key for a healthy dog.
Keep the Dog Moving
Source: cesarsway.com
If dogs with arthritis stay in one position for a longer time, it’ll be difficult for them to get up and keep moving. That’s why exercise and movement are important. Every time you get a chance go for a walk. Get some fresh air and walk around the block or play in your backyard.
Take things slow and don’t rush the dog. These walks will stabilise the muscles and make the dog burn some calories. This prevents them from becoming overweight and stabilises the joints. Just be cautious and don’t make them run, sprint or jump high. This can lead to injuries to an already hurt body.
