Helping Relieve Your Dog’s Arthritis Pain

Arthritis pain includes achy joints and inflammation. Read below for tips on helping to relieve your dog’s arthritis pain.

Beds, Steps, and Ramps

Orthopedic beds provide proper mattress support. This helps to relieve aches and pains that come with arthritis. Additionally, steps or ramps to help your pall get on and off the bed and couch also help relieve pressure from jumping. Also, slippery surfaces can be tough for your pal to navigate. So, non-slip flooring or rugs will help.

Massages and Acupuncture

Massaging your pal’s muscles stimulate blood flow. Blood flow is important to sore and declining muscles. Additionally, acupuncture can help your furry friend be more comfortable and mobile.

Exercise and Water Therapy

You can also help your four-legged friend maintain mobility through exercise. Exercise is important regardless of your pal’s age and the extent of arthritis. Though, the amount of exercise your pal needs will vary. Additionally, non-weight-bearing exercise is great for mobility as well. So, swimming and hydrotherapy can be great for pups with arthritis to stay active.

Joint Supplements

Joint supplements help cartilage and joint health. There are a variety of supplements available. However, you should talk with your vet to consider diet, genetics, and other factors. Additionally, omega-3 supplements can help arthritic joints. Fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and have proven to help canine arthritis pain.

Steroids or NSAIDs

Steroids are an option for their anti-inflammatory effects. However, they are not recommended for use over long periods. This is because they may contribute to developing diabetes, Cushing’s disease, immune suppression, the breakdown of body tissues, and other problems.

However, NSAIDs can also be considered. This stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Some canine NSAIDs include Rimadyl, EtoGesic, Deramazz, Previcox, Metacam, and Feldene. While these are very effective in reducing pain, they should be given with caution.

Maintaining our companion’s health and safety is the most important thing we can do for them. Prioritize exercise and nutrition to keep your pal happy and healthy. Follow the tips above to help minimize your furry friend’s arthritis pain.