Arthritis in Dogs – It Hurts!!
Growing old is never a choice but aging is. The moment you bring home a four legged canine buddy, it’s for life; it’s like ‘to have and to hold, from that day forward, for better, for worse, in sickness and in health, till death do us part’. The truth is you cannot stop them from getting old but you can definitely help them do it gracefully, by taking care of them at a time when they are no longer able to accompany and entertain you or be your status symbol. Knowing When it Strikes Since this is a progressive disease and worsens with time, you need to look for the very first symptoms. If you find your dog slowing down or showing reluctance towards playing, climbing or jumping, call your vet and get an appointment. You’re going to need expert advice to manage the symptoms, help alleviate pain and increase mobility.
The Other Culprits Aging isn’t the only reason of arthritis in dogs. Wear and tear and inflammation may also lead to this degenerative disease. Ligament damage, broken bones, joint displacement or underdevelopment are often the prime perpetrators in case of the ‘not so old’ dogs. Dealing With It Arthritis is an incurable disease and particularly saddening if diagnosed in young dogs. However, it can definitely be kept under check with the right kind of medicines and exercises. A daily walk or exercise helps keep the joints supple and working and the lubricating fluids active. Once your dog reaches 10 years of age, make sure you consult your vet on a regular basis to keep him healthier and avoid arthritis as long as possible. Opt for daily joint supplements and a holistic approach to avoid such diseases and offer relief from pain and inflammation. Heavy weight dogs are a strain on their legs and joints. So while it is good to maintain a healthy muscle mass in their legs, it’s equally important to manage their body weight. And swimming works wonders on the overall weight, working on the cardio-vascular system and mobility. Some pet parents find surgery the viable option. But, it’s only after your buddy’s age, overall health condition and progression of arthritis has been taken in to consideration, all the pros and cons weighed, that your vet decides to take the chance. Otherwise, he may simply suggest a massage therapy or acupuncture. Less Stress, More Living Once you know your dog has arthritis, you have to start ‘being there for him even when you aren’t there’. That means he has to be comfortable moving around or settling in whether you are there at home or out at work. And that calls for certain alterations around the house. Make a warm, well padded and comfy bed, away from breezy or humid spots.
If you have a staircase inside your house, bar it well to prevent your dog from bounding up while you are away. Keep food dish within easy reach so that no undue effort is required while eating. Make a ramp for your bud, long and strong enough to help him navigate stairs or mount higher areas without causing injury or pain. Get in the habit of regular grooming, regular brushing. Those strokes help a great deal more than you can imagine. When life gets tough, when arthritis makes the simplest of movements exhausting and excruciating, do not forget the joy your once energetic playful friend brought in your dull and monotonous life. Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. There is nothing more powerful than a dog that believes that your love can cure him.