Arthritis can impact any dog, though it’s most prevalent in seniors. While it’s incurable, there are treatments for caring for a dog with arthritis.
Does your canine look stiff and sore? If so, your pet may have arthritis. This painful health condition can impact any dog, though it’s most prevalent in seniors. While it’s incurable, there are treatments for caring for a dog with arthritis. Alexander Animal Hospital provides some advice on caring for your pet pal in this article.
Weight Control
One thing that is critical in caring for a dog with arthritis is weight management. Even a few additional pounds will strain your pet’s compromising bones and joints. In addition, obesity can be a downward spiral. As your dog gets bigger, it will be harder for him to run and play.
In addition, your canine friend won’t be as playful as he was during puppyhood, but he’ll still need proper activity. Otherwise, his muscles will start to decline. Call our office for specific advice regarding weight control because your pet’s size, age, and condition will determine his ideal fitness plan. That said, most animals need at least a daily walk. Swimming can be a great choice if the weather permits, assuming your furry friend likes the water.
Veterinary Care
Your pet may need to visit our office more often. Monitoring his condition is essential; you might need to tweak his care as the arthritis progresses. Treatments like laser therapy might also help. Also, make sure to follow our recommended appointment schedule. Additionally, supplements are helpful when caring for a dog with arthritis. For instance, fish oil and glucosamine are beneficial for arthritic pets.
Being Comfortable is a Necessity
Over time, it will become harder for your furry best friend to get on and off beds or in and out of a car. Stairs or pet ramps are helpful. Moreover, your dog needs a good doggy bed. We recommend orthopedic beds since they provide the best support. Lastly, pedicures are more vital than many people realize. If your pet’s claws grow too long, they’ll become uncomfortable for him to walk on. He might hold his weight differently, which will strain your dog’s bones and joints.
We Would Love the Opportunity to Care for Your Furry Friends!
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment.
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