What Can Help Dog Arthritis

What Can I Give My Dog For Arthritis And Joint Pain

Treating Arthritis in Dogs – a plan to keep them pain free!

Nothing can replace professional advice from your veterinarian when it comes to managing your dogs arthritis pain. However, the treatment of arthritis like acupuncture or massages are usually given at your vets office, so you may be looking for alternative ways to treat dog arthritis at home.

Heres what you can give your dog to increase their comfort and bring that broad smile back on their face once again.

What Ingredients To Avoid

When shopping for dog supplements with a healthy skin and coat in mind, avoid:

Manufactured Formulation Omega 3Hydrolyzation is a process by which the amino acids in collagen are broken down by heatedwater so theyâre easier for your body to absord. This method is also the safest and avoidsthe use of harsh chemicals.
Cod Liver OilSome vets do not recommend cod liver oil as a source of omega-3 for dogs because it may leadto doses of Vitamins A and D which are too high.
Flaxseed Oil or ByproductsThese will contain high amounts of alpha linolenic acid which can be difficult for dogs toconvert to the required form.Hydrolyzation is a process by which the amino acids in collagen are broken down by heatedwater so theyâre easier for your body to absord. This method is also the safest and avoidsthe use of harsh chemicals.

Natural And Herbal Arthritis Remedies Recovery In Dogs

Arthritis is painful. Ease your dog into these natural methods of relief and healing. With so many options, you can try several to get the right fit for your budget, your dogs likes and dislikes, and the time you can give to care for your dog. Be patient. Your dog is not going to feel better overnight. But with time and lots of love, you will begin to see improvement. As your listless dog begins to exercise more, you can provide muscle massages as they get used to increased exercise. Consider canine acupuncture, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy too.

If you are changing your dogs diet, make slow changes and include supplements or herbs in treats when possible. If you are adding new whole foods to your dogs bowl, add bone broth as well to give the fruits and vegetables a meaty flavor the dog will enjoy.

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Common Hip Problems In Dogs

If your dog is limping on a back leg or having a hard time getting up, then the problem could be in the hip joint.

There are many things that can affect the hip joint in dogs. Fortunately, many of these conditions can be successfully treated or managed well enough to promote good quality of life in most dogs.

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Dog Arthritis Symptoms & Natural Remedies

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, help reduce swelling, stiffness, and joint pain in humans, and they can do the same for your dog.

They can bring relief to a dog with arthritis, or one whos just had surgery.

But dont give your pooch something from your medicine cabinet.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, help reduce swelling, stiffness, and joint pain in humans, and they can do the same for your dog.

They can bring relief to a dog with arthritis, or one whos just had surgery.

But dont give your pooch something from your medicine cabinet.

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Reduce Slipping On Slick Floor Surfaces

If your dog is slipping on tile, hardwood, and other slippery surfaces, he may find added stability with booties. One of our team members dogs has seen marked improvement with the affordable LONSUNEER NonSlip Dog Boots. Be patient while your dog gets used to wearing these on his paws. You may want to add one at a time as your dog adjusts to them, and be sure to give treats to reward your dog.

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Natural Remedies For Arthritis In Dogs

Can adding herbs to your stiff old dogs dinner help him run, jump, and play like a puppy? Plants were the original pharmacy for humans and animals, and over thousands of years, cultures around the world developed remedies that remain in use today.

Search the medical literature or the websites of educational organizations like the American Botanical Council and youll find many studies examining the effect of medicinal plants on humans with arthritis. But while canine arthritis is a popular veterinary research topic, only a few studies have examined plant-based therapies for dogs.

A 2004 Swiss examination of 29 dogs with degenerative osteoarthritis showed that a resin extract of Indian frankincense significantly reduced symptoms and increased mobility in more than 70% of the canine patients.

In 2014, a randomized placebo-controlled trial at the University of Montreals Faculty of Veterinary Medicine tested 32 dogs diagnosed with arthritis by x-ray and orthopedic exams. The researchers developed combinations of devils claw root , Indian frankincense, and other herbs, and after eight weeks the strength of dogs receiving treatment improved to the equivalent of a kilo of extra strength per paw. None of the treated dogs saw their health decline, unlike 25.8% of the dogs who were given a placebo. In addition, the placebo dogs became less physically active while the treated dogs became significantly more active.

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Commonly Used Joint Supplements/nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are dietary supplements that are not strictly supervised by the FDA like pharmaceuticals. They function as building blocks to some of the normal constituents of joint cartilage and they decrease the effect of some of the destructive enzymes present within an osteoarthritic joint. They also enhance the lubricating effect of the joint fluid. They ideally should be used early in the course of osteoarthritis and with the aim of slowing down arthritis progression rather than accomplishing a dramatic decrease in clinical symptoms . It is unclear whether they have any role in prevention, but due to the lack of significant side effects we recommend supplementation even after routine procedures that may result in osteoarthritis. Again, one should not expect to see a quick or dramatic response to nutraceuticals. Rather, it takes several weeks to obtain therapeutic levels in joint cartilage and joint fluid, and this is reflected in the delayed onset of their beneficial effects.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Glucosamine/Chondroitin Sulfate containing agents

Glucosamine/Chondroitin sulfate containing agents that have research indicating beneficial effects are Cosequin®, Dasuquin®, and Glycoflex III®. Dasuquin combines the glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate ingredients with avocado-soya unsaponifiables. Unsaponifiables decrease inflammation and, in human osteoarthritis trials, decreases pain scores and reliance on anti-inflammatory drugs.

Remember To Check The Terrain

How to Help Your Dog With Arthritis

I try to avoid walking too far on hard surfaces like concrete and tarmac, opting instead for soft grassy routes. And during the wet weather, I try to avoid areas that are particularly muddy, slippery and boggy. It’s also important, if possible, to stick to flat areas and to avoid steep inclines and declines.

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How Long Can A Dog Live With Arthritis

Arthritis isnt fatal, so your dog wont die of it. In fact, dogs with arthritis can live well into their teens, but they may lead restricted and pain-filled lives. Our challenge as caregivers is to help our best friends stay active for as long as possible. Become familiar with the risk factors and symptoms of arthritis so that you can anticipate, recognize, document, and treat the signs of arthritis before they incapacitate your dog.

Risk factors for osteoarthritis include the dogs size , age , genetics , stress and trauma injuries, an inflammatory diet, diabetes, and diseases transmitted by tick bites.

Symptoms of arthritis in dogs vary from one patient to the next but as the illness progresses, most dogs experience:

intermittent lameness
reluctance to rise or move
depression or lack of interest
joints that hurt when touched or swollen joints that are tender and warm to the touch

Stair Treads Help Arthritic Dogs

If your arthritic dog has to use stairs have a look at the stair treads.

For indoor staircases, steps that are all wood or linoleum are prime candidates for temporary step treads. The styles that work best for dog paws are the rubber backed treads with double tape or the self stick gritty tape kind .

For outdoor steps, most steps are fine until they are wet or snowy, then they are downright dangerous. I know my own deck steps get really slippery after it rains and thats why I have the sticky, gritty roll tape on my outdoor deck steps and on my front porch I tacked down the outdoor carpet stair treads.

TIP: Stair treads that dont work well for dog paws are the decorative open pattern rubber style. This style easily traps a dogs toe or paw and should be avoided . The other style that doesnt work well for dogs is any style that is slippery or that does not get securely fastened.

Health Supplements For Arthritis And Mobility

Theres a wide range of natural health supplements for dogs with arthritis. The condition has many potential causes, from aging to mechanics change due to an injury. When bones are rubbing against each other, the once thick cartilage will become thin, causing inflammation and pain in the joints.

The following ingredients help improve mobility and reduce joint pain in dogs:

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate Glycosaminoglycans are essential ingredients of healthy cartilage, making them one of the most popular health supplements for joints.

Hyaluronic acid This type of GAG is a primary component of joint fluid and increases cartilage resistance to wear and tear.

Methylsulfonylmethane This ingredient is useful for forming new cartilage and can curb inflammation and joint pain.

Omega-3 fatty acids these essential fats come with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate pain and improve regeneration.
Turmeric turmeric is a common supplement for enhancing immune function in humans, but you may just as well give it to your dog to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.

Strategies To Ease Your Dogs Arthritis Pain

When it comes to relief, reaching for a single âbig gunâ pharmaceutical is rarely the most effective approach. Rather, best results are achieved by working with your vet to develop a plan tailored to help with your dogâs specific issues.

An integrative, multimodal therapy regime can maximize your dogâs comfort and well-being and minimize the potential side effects of certain therapies. Here are a few strategies that have been found to be beneficial:

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Foot And Ankle Arthritis

How it happens: The foot hitting any surface puts a high degree of contact stress on arthritic jointsevery step hurts. The pain can be quite excruciating if a joint is damaged, says Irvin Oh, MD, chief of Yale Medicine Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgery. Range of motion becomes limited, and bone spurs can develop. Pain is common in the big toe, on the top of the foot, and in the ankle.

Self-care: Keep your weight under control, as being overweight or having obesity puts stress on the foot and ankle. Modify your activity if overuse seems to be exacerbating the pain, and try ice packs. Ankle-strengthening exercises and Achilles-stretching exercises can also help reduce pain. Talk to your doctor about using NSAIDs.

How a specialist can help: We always have to think of evenly distributing mechanical load, says Dr. Oh. He compares the foot and ankle to a tripod and says it must be well-balanced to be optimized for even the most basic functions, like taking a step. Some people with foot arthritis will compensate to avoid feeling pain and that can throw off the balance, he adds. Supportive shoes, an ankle brace, and orthotics may help.

Replacing or fusing arthritic joints may also be recommended. There are innovative joint replacement options for such surgical treatments as toe implants and total ankle replacements for people whose joints are severely damaged or who have no cartilage left, he says. We always try to preserve native joints as much as possible.

Honest Paws Relief Bites

Image Courtesy ofHonest Paws

This is the second time a product from Honest Paws has landed on our list, and for good reason. This company prides itself on providing high-quality health supplements for your pets, taking the time and energy needed to iron out every little detail. One product that we are amazed by happens to be their CBD chews, which come in a number of formulations depending on the specific goal of treatment. For arthritis, we recommend the Relief Bites.

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Take Advantage Of Assistive Devices

If you have arthritis, dont be embarrassed to use devices that make daily life easier on your joints. Assistive devices, like a walker or cane, can make it easier to walk. For some people, shoe inserts provide pain relief.

Using assistive devices can make it easier for you to perform daily tasks, which helps you maintain your quality of life and manage your condition.

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Should Dogs Lay On Heating Pads

How to Help a Dog With Arthritis, Effective Forms

They are safe for pets: Chances are you may have a heated blanket at home for when you get cold. However, you should never use the same blanket on your dog due to the differences in our body temperatures. Heated dog beds heat up safely for a dogs needs and work on low voltage making them safe for canines.

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Efficacy Of Natural And Herbal Arthritis Remedies In Dogs

For most dogs with established arthritis, conventional pain relief and anti-inflammatories will be needed to keep them comfortable.

Herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years. Some methods and herbs are proven effective for pain relief and inflammation. However, as with any natural remedy, holistic care requires dedication and commitment. Not only a commitment to your dogs overall health to tackle the root of the problems, but also the commitment to the time it will take to get your dog to a healthy place.

Often times, natural remedies are used in conjunction with western medicine rather than in place of it.

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Functional Hip & Joint Support Jerky Bites Dog Treats Blue 8 Oz

Wholesome Pride Functional Hip & Joint Support Jerky offers nutritional support for connective tissues, bone health, and joint strength and flexibility. Our beef recipe hip and joint support dog chews are made with 100% natural ingredients as well as fatty acids that are vital to everyday health, strong muscles, and healthy joints. No dog needs a dog jerky treat with a long list of ingredients

Methyl Sulphonyl Methane

This is another compound that is both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It helps the body repair cartilage, which is a factor in the development of arthritis.

Green-Lipped Mussel

This is a very effective ingredient in joint-care medicine. It contains three omega-3 fatty acids EPA, DHA, and ETA which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also support and promote skin and coat health.

Its also a great source of chondroitin, so its a two-in-one supplement that will promote joint health for your best friend.

CBD Oil

Cannabidiol is a new supplement that has shown promise in helping with pain relief and promoting healing. Though its derived from cannabis , it doesnt have THC, so its not harmful to your best friend, and it wont make him high, either. Still, its better to make sure its not contaminated with THC just to be on the safe side.

CBD works with your dogs system to help calm him and create balance to promote self-healing. It also relieves pain and inflammation. It can work well to improve your dogs quality of life.

Fish Oil Supplements

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Maintain An Active Lifestyle

It is important to keep those arthritic joints moving to prevent stiffness and decrease pain. Your arthritic dog may have less enthusiasm about walks, as well as decreased stamina. However, exercise is still essential. Instead of one long daily walk, try taking multiple short, slow walks a day. As your dog tolerates it, try short and steady walks up and down steep hills. This will help rebuild muscle loss in the limbs, increasing overall strength and stability.

What Can You Do To Help

When you see something that isnt quite right with your dog, you should get them to the vet. Tell the vet about the symptoms that you have noticed and anything else that you think will help the vet. The vet will run some tests and examine any noticeable problem areas. After this, they will provide a diagnosis.

If the diagnosis comes back as arthritis, you will have a lot of options for treatment. Your vet may first suggest some NSAIDs to help your dog cope with the pain and stiffness in their back legs. From there, they may recommend that you put your dog on a new diet and exercise regime. This diet will consist of fresh veg and supplements and the exercise regime may include hydrotherapy. The idea behind this treatment for arthritis is to build up the muscles surrounding the joint to take the pressure off and for your dog to lose any excess weight to further relieve the pressure on the joint. This treatment alone can be enough for most dogs to cope with the condition and live a long and pain-free life.

These are just a few of the treatment options available to a dog with arthritis in their back legs. There are a lot more available to them, but we have found these to be the best. They are completely natural and work very well for relieving most of the symptoms of arthritis.