One of the most difficult things a dog owner can face is watching a beloved pet suffer from pain or discomfort due to arthritis. While this condition is relatively common and can affect canines just as it can humans. There are, however, a number of ways to help lessen the discomfort your pet is experiencing. Here are some ways that you can assist your arthritic dog to enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free life.
Keep up with wellness care. Bring your dog in to Southampton Pet Hospital for checkups twice a year. This allows the vet to monitor your pet’s condition and ensure proper pain management.
Feed a healthy diet. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help relieve extra pressure on the joints and reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Veterinarians at Southampton Pet Hospital can recommend the right food, improving mobility can be as easy as feeding the right diet.
Get moving. A healthy diet should also be complemented with adequate exercise to help keep your dog in good shape. Just be careful not to overdo it. Monitor the amount and intensity of exercise and whenever possible try to stick to softer surfaces.
Mind the conditions. Cold, damp air can aggravate arthritic joints, so as much as possible make sure the conditions your dog is exposed to are warm and dry.
Pain medication is an option. There are several medications on the market today that are designed specifically to help animals that suffer from the affects of arthritis.
Adjust your home environment. There are a lot of things you can do at home to help your arthritic dog, such as providing soft, padded bedding, using ramps to make climbing in or out of a vehicle easier, and putting down secure carpeting to help your dog get good traction while walking around.
It’s important to note that every dog is different, and what may work for one may not be a viable solution for another. The best way you can help your arthritic dog is to work with your veterinarian. Together you can help your four-legged companion enjoy a life that’s as pain-free and comfortable as possible.
