Thursday, December 29, 2011

How to Decrease Arthritis Symptoms in Dogs

By Steven Nelson


Arthritis is a unpleasant disease for both humans and animals. Joints become inflamed and agonizing. This may occur anywhere on the body of your dog (or us). Issues happen when moving the influenced joint. Wear and tear in time is the reason. Other triggers for the onset of the illness can be due to poor immune mechanism, tendon, ligament or muscle injury, obesity , dislocation and joint illnesses. German Shepherds, Labradors and Retrievers suffer considerably from this dog arthritis illness.

There are at least 2 bones closely attached to each joint. Articular cartilage on the end of the bones offers a smooth place so the bones don't rub against each other when moving. It is like a lubricator or shock absorber which removes any grinding motion. As the disease develops, cartilage becomes worn and coarse. As this occurs, the joint fluid becomes watery and thin. Oiling is lost in the joint and movement is not comfortable. As time goes by the cartilage disintegrates and bone rubs on bone.

Can you stop your dog from getting arthritis as it ages? One of the most terrible mistakes is to constantly feed treats. These should actually only be given with coaching. Discover the perfect weight for the breed you have and do your best to maintain it. Slightly underweight is even better. Additional pounds adds to load on joints and limbs, as with us. We will be able to spoil our best friends with exercise and play, not food. Make a point of watching their weight. This may give them more years to love you, and you more time to like them.

Activity is essential. Exercise, running not just walking, will keep arthritis at bay. Joints will remain limber by the body's natural lubricating. If your dog has arthritis, then short and regularly would be better. 2 times each day for 10-15 minutes should do more if possible. Hills might be distressing for your dog. Swimming is wonderful exercise for us and dogs.

There isn't any treatment for arthritis. You can alleviate the agony and deter it from worsening. Prescribed medication, natural additions, such as glucosamine and oils, a soft bed, brushing their coat softly will all help. Top quality dog food would provide necessary ingredients. Meal times in a raised bowl would help forestall strain. Memorize your vet's phone number and don't hesitate to call for proposals and information. A last thing: Take your dog to the veterinarian for check-ups and even consider befriending him!




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