Arthritis is a common problem in dogs. Studies suggest that more than one-quarter of all dogs suffer from arthritis. The problem is found mostly in aged and large breed dogs. But the good news is more than 76% of dogs suffering from arthritis; can be helped to lead a cured and comfortable life. There are several dog arthritis treatments available. A few of which are discussed below.
1. Gentle exercise
Regular exercise is a must in dogs, even if he doesn’t have arthritis. Exercise is required in dogs to keep them moving and prevent stiffening up. But you must also keep an eye on a few things like, make sure the exercise is gentle, controlled, has low impact, and short. You can use a dog treadmill that allows a slow walk according to your dog’s desired speed.
Low impact and moderate exercise are necessary for dogs with arthritis. As it will help in maintaining flexibility and stabilizing the joints. Swimming is a non-weight-bearing exercise and is excellent for dogs with arthritis. If your dog is not used to exercising, start up slowly and then increase up only gradually as he starts developing muscle tone and losing weight.
2. Slimming down
Overweight can cause multiple health issues in your dog. Overweight puts a grave effect on joint pain. Because it puts an extra strain on your dog’s joint and thus increasing arthritic pain. Keeping your dog slim can offer multiple health benefits to your dog besides reducing arthritic pain. Before cutting the food intake of your dog, remember to reduce the portions of their diet gradually. Otherwise, the body of your dog may go to starvation mode making it harder to lose weight.
3. Diet
A low carb high protein diet is always better than a diet that is high in carbs. Because carbohydrates supply the same number of calories as proteins but have less nutritional value. But sometimes, you may feel guilty for your dog who looks longingly at her food bowl. No need to worry, just put little pumpkins in her dinner. This is healthy, has low calories, and will make your dog feel full at the same time.
4. Supplementation
There are various joint supplements available to improve joint health and promote healthy cartilage. The supplements contain combinations of chondroitin, glucosamine, MSM, and other chondroprotective substances in them. Although a small number of the products seem to be of great help, the decision depends on various other factors like diet genetics. Omega-3 fatty acids also have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help a dog with arthritis. A higher level of acids via different supplements is needed to get a better result.
5. Massage therapy
Massage therapy can help reduce pain in your arthritic canine friend the same way it helps you; when you feel stiff and achy. It is better to book a professional massage therapist to get the best result. But if you can’t, you may try some simple massage techniques at your home too.
6. Acupuncture
The benefits of acupuncture are not limited to humans only. It is an ancient medical treatment that involves inserting needles into specific points of the body. Veterinary acupuncture helps reduce arthritis pain in your dog by releasing the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substance in your pet’s body.
7. Improved traction
As arthritic dogs cannot be steady on their feet, a secure rug for traction can offer them stability and prevent slipping or sliding. It helps them grip the floor and helps your dog remain steady and upright.
8. Use of anti-inflammatory foods in place of treats
Certain foods like broccoli, spinach, blueberries, pineapple, ginger, turmeric, mango, papaya are known to have natural anti-inflammatory properties in them. Feed your canine friend a fresh diet that is rich in anti-inflammatory properties.
9. Natural supplements like hemp CBD oil
One of the best natural remedies to treat arthritis in your dog is to add CBD oil into their daily routine. There are other natural supplements too. Like glucosamine, chondroitin, krill oil can ease the joint pain in your pup. The CBD oil from hemp is so useful because of the anti-inflammatory property of the oil that targets your pet’s painful joints. Joint pain can prevent your pet from running and playing which can put your dog at the risk of getting overweight. The use of CBD oil can help promote a relaxed attitude in your pet so that they can get back to their joyous selves.
Although, research is still emerging about the benefits of CBD oil on dogs with arthritis. Experts have found that CBD generally offers multiple health benefits and has minimum or no side effects when given in the right dosage.
The right CBD dosage for your dog
Getting the right dosage of CBD for your pet is very important to get the best result. If your pet is new to using CBD, then administering a minimum dosage is recommended. With time you may increase the dose depending upon the changes and symptoms that you notice in your dog. But it is also very important that you do not overdose on your dog. As this may cause negative results in your pet. 0.25mg of CBD per one pound of your dog’s body weight can be the right dose to start with. Gradually with time, you may increase the dose instead of jumping to a high dose suddenly. In general, a regular dose is good for treating mild issues whereas severe health issues require a higher dose of CBD.
