Arthritis is a common condition that affects many dogs, particularly as they age. It can cause pain, stiffness, and a decrease in mobility. However, there are steps you can take to help your dog manage their arthritis and improve their quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll explore what arthritis is, its causes, and how to help your dog with arthritis.
How to help your dog with arthritis
What is arthritis in dogs?
Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation of the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and a decrease in mobility. In dogs, arthritis is most commonly caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, but it can also be caused by injury, disease, or congenital conditions.
The most common form of arthritis in dogs is osteoarthritis, which is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a cushioning material that helps to absorb shock and prevent friction between bones. As this cartilage wears away, the bones can rub together, causing pain, inflammation, and further damage.
Arthritis is most prevalent in larger breed dogs. It also tends to develop in dogs who have had joint issues or injuries.
Symptoms of arthritis in dogs
The symptoms of arthritis in dogs can vary, but the most common include:
- Limping or favoring one limb
- Difficulty getting up, lying down, or climbing stairs
- Stiffness or reluctance to move
- Decreased activity levels or enthusiasm for exercise
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Aggression or mood changes when touched or moved
- Chewing on the joint area
- Whining or whimpering—in our house, this usually happens in the evenings after a day of play or extra long walks
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis. Arthritis can be easily confused with other conditions, so it’s important to rule out any underlying health problems before beginning treatment. Your vet will probably perform manual manipulation to try and assess your dog’s flexibility. And they will probably advise getting some x-rays.
How to Help a Dog with Arthritis
There is no cure for arthritis, but there are steps you can take to help manage your dog’s symptoms and improve their quality of life. Just because your dog is getting older and has arthritis, doesn’t mean you should stop trying to keep your dog active and healthy. Here are some of the most effective ways to help a dog with arthritis:
Provide a supportive environment
A supportive environment can make a big difference for dogs with arthritis. Providing a comfortable bed and plenty of soft, cushioned surfaces can help to reduce pressure on their joints and reduce pain. Ramps or steps can also be useful for dogs who have trouble climbing stairs or getting into vehicles. You may even want to consider investing in a sling (or even use a towel under the belly) to help “lift” your dog during walks to decrease the weight load on the joints.
Maintain a healthy weight
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for managing their arthritis. Excess weight puts additional stress on their joints, which can worsen their symptoms. Work with your vet to develop a healthy diet and exercise plan that can help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Your dog may give you those puppy-dog eyes for extra treats, but you won’t be doing him any favors—stay strong.
Encourage gentle exercise
Regular, gentle exercise is important for dogs with arthritis. This can help to maintain their joint mobility and flexibility, and reduce the risk of muscle wasting. Gentle activities, such as short walks, swimming, or playing fetch, can be effective for most dogs with arthritis. However, it’s important to talk to your vet first to determine what type and amount of exercise is appropriate for your dog.
Use pain medication
Pain medication can be an effective way to manage the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. There are many different types of pain medication available for dogs, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucosamine, and chondroitin. Your vet can help you choose the best type of pain medication for your dog based on their individual needs and medical history. Your vet may not be able to recommend CBD oil to you, but in our house, Dylan gets some in the evenings. If he is whining and seems to be having discomfort, he will get some CBD and it settles him down.
Try physical therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective way to improve your dog’s mobility and reduce their pain. This can include exercises, massage, and hydrotherapy, which can help to improve joint mobility, increase muscle strength, and reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy should be performed under the guidance of a professional who has experience working with dogs with arthritis. You can perform massage on your dog at home. Dylan likes having his shoulders and hips massaged. And he will sit in front of you and whine until you give him his daily massages.
Consider complementary therapies
In addition to traditional treatments, there are several complementary therapies that can help dogs with arthritis. These include acupuncture, chiropractic care, and laser therapy. While these therapies have not been proven to cure arthritis, they can help to reduce pain and improve mobility for some dogs. We give Dylan laser therapy treatments at home which he really enjoys. If you go to a holistic vet, they can help create a treatment plan or show you some acupuncture points to focus on. Dylan lets us know if he wants to sit through a treatment or not. And it has helped him through his two knee surgeries and now his arthritis.
Make changes to your dog’s environment
Modifying your dog’s environment can also help to manage their arthritis. This can include making changes to their sleeping arrangements, such as adding a memory foam bed or providing a plush blanket for extra cushioning. Additionally, you can make changes to your home to reduce the stress on your dog’s joints. This can include installing non-slip flooring or providing a ramp to help them get in and out of the car. You can also invest in yoga mats to put in areas that are slippery. And to prevent potential injuries, add ramps or steps to help your dog getting on the sofa or on your bed.
Arthritis can be a debilitating condition for dogs. With the right care and support, your dog can live a happy, active life and enjoy many years with their loving family.
If your dog is showing symptoms of arthritis, it’s important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis. Your vet can help you determine the best course of treatment for your dog. And they can provide guidance on how to manage their arthritis in the long term.
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