Often referred to as “wear and tear” to the joint over time due to age, many other factors can also contribute to the likelihood of your dog developing Arthritis. These can include genetics, weight and past injury.
In cold weather, you may start to notice your dog’s symptoms worsening, and although only a Veterinary Surgeon can prescribe your pooch with prescription medicines to fully alleviate their pain, there are still many things you can do from home that can help.
Make Their Environment More Comfortable
- If your dog sleeps on a cold or hard floor, it may make their arthritis worse in the morning. Instead, give them a comfortable and supportive bed, there are specific orthopaedic beds available for this, or move their already comfortable bedding away from colder areas of the home.
- To limit potentially painful movements for your dog, raise their food and water bowls, which will reduce the amount they bend down. Small ramps can also be a helpful aid to help your furry friend get into the car or onto furniture more easily.
- To further help your furry friend get around their environment easier, rubber mats can be placed on slippery floors, to help them better grip with their paws.
Try Steady Exercise in Moderation
- Exercise is still of course necessary; however, walks should not exhaust your dog, nor cause them to be more stiff the next day. When walking them, try to do so in moderation.
- A walking pace walk on a lead, without ‘burst activities’ such as chasing a ball, may help them, as steady exercise will help get their joints moving. Though good rest periods are still advised, especially during flare-ups.
Monitor Your Dog’s Weight
- Carrying extra weight or being underweight can have an impact on your dog’s joints, it is important that their weight is at a good level for their breed and age.
- It is a good idea to monitor your dog's weight and body condition regularly. If you need help assessing your dog’s condition, Insure Your Paws policy holders can do so by speaking to one of our Registered Veterinary nurses via our Assist Your Paws careline, available 24/7.
We know it can be hard to see your furry companion struggle, but some of these environmental tweaks, exercise and weight management tips, of course in collaboration with your vet’s advice for your dog specifically, could help lessen their discomfort.
Disclaimer: These tips are meant as suggestions. It is important that you and your dog’s vet work together to monitor and provide the best care for your dog.
