As your dog gets older you might notice some changes in their energy level and abilities. For example, you might start to notice them getting tired out earlier than usual on their daily walk. You may see that they are beginning to struggle with going up and down stairs. Joint problems, arthritis, and hip dysplasia are very common issues for all breeds of aging dogs. As they slow down, you will need to find ways to help ease their joint pain to keep them feeling comfortable. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural remedies out there and handy products that can keep them feeling good and make their lives easier!
Some signs and symptoms of canine arthritis are difficulty going up and down the stairs, stiffness when walking, being unable to jump up onto furniture like the couch or bed, weight gain, or irritability. There are many ways you can choose to manage your dog’s arthritis. It’s best to make an appointment with your vet as you notice these signs.
Physical therapy, water therapy, and holistic modalities like acupuncture have been shown to be very healing and a great help at managing joint pain and arthritis in dogs. Many people choose to use a combination of traditional vet care and holistic therapies to treat their dog’s condition. Supplements like CBD have several benefits for aging dogs. CBD is derived from the Cannabis plant or otherwise known as hemp. CBD is completely non-psychoactive – so don’t worry- no, it will not get your dog high! A high quality CBD like Honest Paws can be especially useful for maintaining pain and inflammation in dogs with mobility issues.
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring and commonly used health product for treating arthritis in dogs. Giving your dog a daily supplement like Vetpro Dog Hip and Joint Pain and inflammation relief chews is a great way to keep your dog's joints flexible and lubricated. Glucosamine works to rebuild any damaged tissue and stimulates the growth of cartilage cells – it slows the progression of arthritis and eases pain and discomfort.
Another natural supplement to relieve joint aches and pains is turmeric. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, it is often helpful for such conditions. Zesty Paws makes a great Turmeric Curcumin Supplement for Dogs that not only eases joint stiffness but also supports digestion, liver function, cardiovascular and skin health.
There are also some great products on the market that can help make your home more accessible for your aging dog. Non-slip pet stairs are very helpful if your dog has difficulty climbing onto the bed or couch. These YOFIT Doggy steps are great for small dogs so you don’t have to worry about them getting injured while trying to jump on or off the bed. There are also folding dog stairs like the Petsafe Cozy Up Dog Steps that can support larger breed dogs up to 200lbs.
Going up and down some stairs can actually be good for dogs with arthritis because it helps them build range of motion, however, if you have a large flight of stairs in your home it can be dangerous for them. Some aging pups or dogs with mobility issues rely on potty pads if they can’t make it outside. WizSmart Ultra 8 Cup Dog Pads are an excellent indoor bathroom solution that won’t leak and locks in any odors. One WizSmart pad can last all day holding in up to 8 cups of liquid and saving your dog from several dangerous trips a day up and down the stairs.
Another thing that can help make your dog with arthritis’s life a little easier is getting them an elevated food and water station. This can prevent neck strains and provides ease of access to their food and water bowls.
Aside from all these great tips for easing your dog’s transition to becoming a senior dog, don’t forget the most important thing- continuing to show them lots of love! This is a great time to slow down and find new ways to spend time together and enjoy each other’s company.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dealing-with-canine-arthritis/
https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/cbd-oil-for-improved-pet-mobility/
https://topdoghealth.com/glucosamine-for-dogs-everything-you-need-to-know/