Joint stiffness and arthritis issues, unfortunately, affect countless dogs as they age, causing discomfort and even impacting their mobility. As loving pet owners, it’s our responsibility to help our furry friends enjoy a great quality of life by tackling joint issues head-on.
In this guide, we’ll explore methods to support your dog when dealing with joint stiffness, including lifestyle changes, to alleviate pain and keep them moving through their golden years.
10 Options That Help Your Dog With Joint Stiffness
To keep your pup comfortable, whether they have arthritis or general joint pain, consider using the following soothing methods. One or a combination of the 10 can help with joint stiffness.
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
A crucial step in alleviating joint stiffness in your dog is ensuring they maintain a healthy weight. Extra pounds place unnecessary pressure on the joints, exacerbating the pain and discomfort. Track your dog’s diet and provide them with well-balanced meals for weight management.
2. Engage in Gentle Exercise
Regular, low-impact exercise can help to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Walking, swimming, or slow-paced games like fetch are excellent choices to start your dog off with. Be sure to adjust the intensity and duration based on your dog’s capabilities and comfort levels.
3. Regular Veterinarian Checkups
Scheduling routine vet appointments is vital for tracking your dog’s health progress, addressing any medical conditions early, and getting expert advice on managing their joint issues. Your veterinarian may recommend medication or treatment options specific to your dog’s needs.
4. Try CBD for Dogs
CBD products offer potential relief from inflammation associated with joint stiffness in dogs, acting as an all-natural solution without harmful side effects. If you’re interested in trying this solution, experience Honest Paws CBD for dogs, but talk to your veterinarian before using it.
5. Massage Therapy
Gently massaging your dog’s muscles around the affected joints can promote blood circulation and alleviate pain caused by muscle tension. Consult with a canine massage therapist to learn a few massage moves, or ask your vet about techniques you can use at home for targeted relief.
6. Orthopedic Beds
Investing in an orthopedic bed provides additional support for your dog’s joints while they sleep or rest, reducing strain on their bones, muscles, and ligaments. Orthopedic beds can even help with health pains or discomforts caused by joint pains, as it reduces joint pressure over time.
7. Joint Supplements
Adding joint supplements containing ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet can promote cartilage repair as well as prevent further deterioration of their joints long term. With that said, consult your veterinarian first.
8. Make Your Home More Accessible
Consider making adjustments to your home environment for your dog’s comfort, such as adding ramps for easier access to beds or sofas. You could also add non-slip mats to prevent your dog from slipping on hard surfaces. Consider adding carpet to your wood floors and stairs.
9. Heat Therapy
Applying a warm compress to your dog’s stiff joints can provide temporary relief by encouraging blood flow and relaxing muscles surrounding the area. However, consult with your veterinarian before implementing heat therapy to ensure safety, as you may apply a heat that’s too hot.
10. Alternative Therapies
Explore alternative treatments like acupuncture or hydrotherapy, which can stimulate natural pain relief, decrease swelling in dogs with arthritis and increase overall mobility. Always consult with a licensed veterinary professional who specializes in these modalities for optimal results.
In Conclusion…
It’s never too late to start taking action and helping your dog feel their best, despite joint stiffness or arthritis pain. By proactively implementing the strategies discussed in this guide (with help from a ver), you will not only alleviate their pain but also improve their overall quality of life.