How Can My Dog Get Rabies
Rabies is secreted in saliva, so itâs most often passed through a bite wound from an infected animal. When a bite breaks the skin, the virus can enter the bloodstream. It can also pass through an open wound that is exposed to the saliva of an infected animal, usually by licking.
While it can pass between pets, rabies in dogs most frequently comes from exposure to wild animals like bats, raccoons, and foxes.
Each year, about 400 to 500 cases of rabies are reported in domestic pets like cats, dogs, and ferrets. Rabies isnât particularly common in dogs in the United States, because it is 100% preventable with vaccination.
Moderate Exercise And Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, massage, and daily exercise can be very beneficial to dogs with arthritis.
Consider daily exercise in moderation: Start with short walks, up to 10 or 15 minutes, three to four times per day. Following the same routine every day without high-impact activities is key to giving your dog some exercise without increasing stress or pain.
Speak with your veterinarian about consulting a certified small animal physical rehabilitation practitioner. They can lead your dog through therapeutic exercises like passive stretching, range of motion exercises, controlled walking with obstacles, and using underwater treadmills.
Give Your Dog A Daily Massage
Massage therapy is great for arthritis and some pet boutiques charge big money for a dog massage. You can do this for free! Use long gentle strokes and always push blood toward your dogs heart. Massage gets blood flowing to the arthritic area and can reduce pain and stiffness for several hours.
You can actually do this massage in combination with the next suggestion which is heat therapy.
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When To Call Your Vet
Arthritis is best treated with the help of a holistic veterinarian. Conventional vets may recommend certain dog medications to reduce pain, including:
- Muscle relaxants
- Medications to reduce nerve pain
- Opioid medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
However, these medications are only good for short-term relief. Long-term use can lead to addiction and tolerance buildup, increasing the risk of an overdose and other side effects, such as bloating, vomiting, headaches, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
Holistic veterinarians will recommend natural remedies for dogs with arthritis combined with lifestyle and diet modifications. They may also point you to an acupuncture specialist or a physiotherapist to provide extra mobility treatment and reduce muscle tension.
Never give any human pain medication to an arthritic dog unless youve been told so by your veterinarian and guided about dosage. These are human medications for a good reason their serving size is adjusted to average human weight, making them inappropriate for our canine friends.
Preventing Arthritis In Dogs
Just like your health, prevention for your pooch is extremely important. Ensuring that your dog has regular veterinary care, a good diet, healthy amounts of exercise, and maintains a healthy weight will all support, prevent, or slow down the development of arthritis as your dog ages.
Make sure to find and develop a relationship with a veterinarian who you and your dog trust so that you have a preexisting relationship if your dog begins to experience arthritis symptoms.
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Go For Arthritis Relief Walks
A sedentary lifestyle is not good for dogs with arthritis . Its important that your arthritic dog gets a beneficial walk every day. A beneficial walk for arthritis is one that doesnt allow sniffing at every tree or post.
An arthritis relief walk starts slow for 5 minutes, and then you increase to a manageable pace for 10 full minutes, then a slower, cool down pace for the final 5 minutes.
Try to keep your arthritic dog moving non-stop for 20 minutes per day before allowing her discovery time. Or, even better would be 2 walks, each 20 minutes per day.
How To Prevent Arthritis In Dogs
While youre unable to prevent the condition developing in dogs who have age arthritis , it can be prevented in young dogs by restricting them from jumping up on the sofa and running up the stairs while theyre still growing and their joints are developing. Young dogs can be taken on shorter walks and on routes with a limited incline to reduce pressure on their hip and knee joints.
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What Is Cbd And How Does It Work
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of the two major active ingredients produced by cannabis plants .
Unlike THC, CBD doesnt have intoxicating properties, so it wont get you or your dog high.
This makes CBD safe for both humans and pets.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system , which is the major regulatory network in all mammals. The ECS helps the body maintain homeostasis by regulating several important biological functions, such as memory, mood, immune function, body temperature, appetite, reproduction, neuroprotection, and pain perception .
Similar to humans, dogs have endocannabinoid systems that interact with cannabis compounds.
Thats because the ECS produces its own cannabis-like molecules called endocannabinoids.
Whenever homeostasis gets compromised, the ECS releases more endocannabinoids to help the body return to its normal state.
However, endocannabinoids have a relatively short duration in the bloodstream. Insufficient cannabinoid concentrations may compromise the functioning of other systems and organs throughout the body.
Researchers have linked different types of chronic pain, such as arthritis, nerve pain, and fibromyalgia, to endocannabinoid deficiencies.
CBD has a multifaceted mechanism of action when it comes to pain relief. For one, it blocks the release of pro-inflammatory compounds called cytokines. Inflammation is the root cause of pain, so by reducing it, cannabidiol can ease the discomfort in your dog .
Create A Prescription And Record The Progress
After you visit your veteran, they will provide you with some prescription medications to help combat the dogs pain. These medicines will help in easing the pain and improve joint health. Some pain medication that can be prescribed to your dog is mentioned below.
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
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Opioid medications
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Medicines to relieve nerve pain
According to the doctors prescription, your dog must take these medicines once or twice a day for a long period. The other prescribed medicines can be used as and when required. One of the best pieces of advice for looking after your dogs pain management is to sit with your veteran and devise a medication plan that suits your dog the best. Also, it is better to keep your vet updated about th progress your little childs progress.
Maintaining a journal for the journey of the senior dogs is a great idea as it helps the veterans closely monitor each of the symptoms and process of improvement. It will also act as a support for the veterans in finalizing the next steps of treatment.
Feeding a dog the prescribed medication is not an easy task. You can always look online for the different tips and tricks you can try to feed your dogs the medicines the veteran prescribes.
Please never give human medicine to your dog in place of the prescribed veterinary medicine. You and your dog might be suffering from the same joint pain, but as your dogs medicine wont be effective on you, your medicine is of no use to the dog.
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Modify Your Home To Help Your Dog With Arthritis
It can be difficult for an arthritic dog to navigate certain areas of your home like slippery floors and staircases. Heres where you can be creative! Try the following modifications to help your dog with arthritis at home:
- Help your dog gain traction on slippery floors by putting down area rugs, runners, yoga mats, or even rubber mats that are meant for the tub. This is one of several practical solutions for dogs who are afraid of hardwood floors in addition to the ToeGrips mentioned above.
- Keep your dogs dishes on an absorbent mat so spilled water doesnt cause your dog to slip and fall. If your dog is having trouble reaching down to a dish on the floor, consider using an elevated feeder. Feeding your dog on a nonslip mat, such as an inexpensive rubber welcome mat, can provide dinner with dignity for a dog who struggles to stand long enough to eat.
- Ramps and steps can help your dog get up and down from the couch or bed, on and off of the deck, or in and out of the car. If you are handy with tools, you can find plans online to custom build ramps and stairs. Alternatively, they can be purchased in pet stores and online.
- If you dont want your dog to use the stairs, consider using baby gates to block these areas.
Signs Of Arthritis In Dogs
Arthritis develops differently in each dog, but there are a handful of common symptoms of arthritis in dogs that display when they are suffering from arthritis that may alert their owners that they need medical care. Below are some of the most common signs that a dog is suffering from arthritis:
- Licking, chewing, or biting the affected area
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Be Patient And Realistic
Your arthritic dog needs all the patience, support, and TLC you can offer. With your help, your dog can still remain happy and comfortable for a long time in the face of arthritis.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for osteoarthritis. Though treatment can slow the progression of the disease, it may eventually become so severe that your dogs pain cannot be controlled and he will be too immobile to benefit from assistance.
Sadly, when other options have been exhausted, the time may come to consider humane euthanasia. As difficult as this decision is, rest assured you will be doing the right thing if it is out of love for your beloved companion.
What Can I Give My Dog For Arthritis Over The Counter
First things first never self-diagnose your dog with arthritis. You should always ask for the vets advice before purchasing any over-the-counter medication, and have it confirmed that its indeed degenerative joint disease.
At Purely Pets we actually offer a free, 24-hour vet helpline as part of our dog insurance policies policies where you can get advice and reassurance if you have any concerns.
If your vet prescribes something for your dog, its likely to be one of the following:
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How You Can Ease Your Senior Dog’s Arthritis Pain
You recognize the signs. The slow hobble to greet you at the door where once your dog practically leaped at the chance to put his paws on you. The laborious clamber from a resting position to standing.
These are clear signs of arthritis pain and it affects between 60 70% of dogs.
Other signs include limping, reluctance to go up and down stairs and generally, a lethargy where you once had an active pooch.
When you think about it, its not surprising that arthritis pain slows down even the most enthusiastic dog greeting. After all, its condition where the cartilage has worn away and now your dog experiences bone grinding against bone when he gets up. No wonder so many of those movements look less than graceful!
Why theres no cure for arthritis pain, there are treatment plans you and your veterinarian can employ to ease the pain.
Of course, if youre like most pet lovers, you may wonder what causes arthritis and if its a natural extension of old age? In other words, what brings this painful condition on in the first place?
First, arthritis is often caused by a ligament damage that hasnt healed properly. Have you ever seen a dog go airborne for a frisbee and then have a rough landing? That rough landing can have consequences later in life.
But what about the dogs that have never been especially active and who might be smaller? Well, arthritis can and does affect many dogs and we dont always know all the reasons why.
So whats a pet lover to do?
Joint Supplements For Dogs: The Helpful Vs The Hype
Theres a lot of crazy info out there when it comes to canine joint health and mobility. Arm yourself with the evidence and position your veterinary practice as the trusted source of reliable data.
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Whether their dogs are old and stiff, young and developing, or couch potatoes, pet owners tend to be highly concerned about canine joints. They’re searching online for information on mobility and arthritis, asking each other for recommendations, or going with what’s been recommended by their own doctor.
Chances are they’ve already come to you with questions about things like hyper-immune milk factor and Boswellia serrata, but how do you begin to shed light on the veiled world of nutraceuticals? How much to give? How often? What brand? Glucosamine-enriched dog food or shark cartilage supplement? What is truth? What is a claim? So many questions.
Fortunately, when it comes to evidence-based use of joint supplements in dogs, CVC educator-now Fetch dvm360 conference-Matt Brunke, DVM, CCRP, CVPP, CVA, has the answers. You know pet owners are going to ask you for your opinion. Why not be the expert?
Dr. Brunke’s guide to oral joint supplements
Here’s a rundown of the joint supplements getting the most buzz in the pet world these days.
A loading dose of two times maintenance for four to six weeks is required for glucosamine hydrochloride to reach therapeutic levels, Dr. Brunke says. Maintenance is 500 to 1,000 mg for a 75-lb dog, which works out to about 15 mg/kg.
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Joint Problems In Older Dogs
Older dogs are highly susceptible to various health problems, including joint issues. One of the most common is arthritis, which could also occur prematurely to younger canines.
Arthritis occurs due to trauma and accumulated damage to the joints. As your dog uses its joints to walk, run, and guard your yard, the cartilage thins slowly. Over the years, the cartilage will be gone, which will cause the bones to rub with each other and the surrounding ligaments and tissues.
However, arthritis can also be developmental, which means your dog is born with a high predisposition to the condition. Large guard dogs like Bullmastiff and Rottweiler are prone to arthritis later due to their heavier bodies. Also, these dogs are active, which will take its toll on their joints.
On the other hand, small dogs can also acquire arthritis. Obesity and excessive physical activities will cause more stress to their small joints.
Just like humans, any dog can develop arthritis later in life. What you need to do is to have it diagnosed as early as possible. This way, you and the vet can work together to improve your dogs quality of life.
Managing Your Dogs Weight
Weight management is a critical component of relieving dog joint pain. Obesity contributes to increased pressure on the joints, which leads to pain and discomfort. Controlling your dogs weight can help ease their pain as they age. Speak with your veterinarian about the ideal weight for your pet and long-term weight management.
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What Other Methods Can I Use To Help My Dog With Pain Relief
In addition to medication, you can also help your dog with pain relief by providing them with a comfortable place to rest. This may include getting them a dog bed or orthopedic mattress. You can also give them regular massages, which can help to loosen up their muscles and reduce stiffness.
Finally, you can also provide your dog with physical therapy exercises that can help to improve their range of motion. If you’re interested in giving your dog physical therapy, it’s important to consult with a vet first. They will be able to recommend the best exercises based on your dog’s individual needs.
Joint Supplements For Dogs
*NOTE* DO NOT give human joint supplements to your dog, as they may contain ingredients harmful to your pet and may not actually contain the correct amount of each listed ingredient. Only use veterinary-formulated joint supplements for your pet.
Joint supplements are a crucial, drug-free, part of helping your dog with arthritis. They aid in the protection of the cartilage in the joint as well as act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Commonly recommended supplements include Synovi G4 chews, Cosequin DS, or Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM.
What Ingredients to Look for in Canine Joint Supplements
I usually recommend starting with Glucosamine and MSM, and as your dog ages and possible symptoms arise, then you can find ones with more ingredients, as per the list below:
- Glucosamine helps slow down collagen degradation and inhibit inflammation-producing factors.
- MSM crucial for connective tissue and an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. It may also have hepatoprotective properties as well . Helps with pain due to how it works.
- Boswellia serrata good anti-inflammatory activity.
- Superoxide Dismutase helps to scavenge molecules known to cause damage to tissues.
- Yucca schidigera a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
- Chondroitin Sulfate acts as an anti-inflammatory agent as well as helps reduce the breakdown of collagen.
Available at:
Available at:
Available at:
New Zealand Deer Velvet Joint Supplement
Omega-3 Supplements for Dogs
Available at:
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Human Medications Dogs Cant Have
Before we get into what you can give your dog for pain, lets talk about the human medications you should never give your dog. These OTC human pain medications are not safe for dogs:
Always consult a veterinarian before giving your dog over-the-counter medications.
Some over-the-counter medications, like aspirin, are safe for dogs only in the appropriate dosage. Dosage depends on the weight, size, and health history of the dog, and unfortunately, it can be very easy to give them too much. You should always consult a veterinarian before giving your dog over-the-counter medications.