Dogs are naturally energetic. These lovable animals are always on the go. Dogs that have matured would still possess puppy-like energy. Apparently, dogs have many similarities with humans as these animals are also weighed down with degenerative diseases. When we get older, our muscles and joints start acting up. Getting up on chilly morning would be an arduous task for older people as the muscles and joints would start to act up. It is common for people to attribute the aching muscles and the sore joint to old age but these can be symptoms of arthritis. Our dogs may feel miserable because of this ailment too. Arthritis is a common problem as it afflicts about 25% of dogs in the US.
A dog may suffer from inflammatory or from degenerative arthritis. Arthritis is a very painful concern that is commonly attributed to the age related weakening of the bones. Joint instability may also be caused by infection or traumatic injury. Obesity can aggravate this condition as the joints receive more pressure from the increased weight.
Similar to people with arthritis, an arthritic dog's mobility is as well impaired because of muscle pains and sore joints. Although dogs cannot speak about how they feel a discerning owner will know that the pet is not well. Moreover, the impaired mobility would also be a sign that the dog is suffering from the degenerative disease. Dog are highly energetic thus man's best friends would rather run than walk. A dog suffering from arthritis would limp; have difficulties in climbing stairs or getting up after lying down because of stiff joints. Often times the dog will have fever because of the pain.
The pet must be taken to a vet for proper management of the disease. Steroids and anti inflammatory drugs are effective in alleviating the pain however the side effects oftentimes cause another medical concern. Acupuncture and surgery are other options that a dog owner can take to lessen the discomfort of the pet.
To help the pet an owner has to give the pet more TLC. The dog may refuse to move but exercise is necessary to maintain mobility. The pet is in pain and the best thing a dog owner can do is to ensure that the pet is comfortable. Provide the pet with an orthopedic bed but if none is available a well padded bed that is raised about one foot from the floor would lessen the dog's discomfort. Massage is proven effective in reducing the discomfort of arthritic people thus a massage will be good for your pet too. It is a good opportunity to bond with the pet as well.
A dog may suffer from inflammatory or from degenerative arthritis. Arthritis is a very painful concern that is commonly attributed to the age related weakening of the bones. Joint instability may also be caused by infection or traumatic injury. Obesity can aggravate this condition as the joints receive more pressure from the increased weight.
Similar to people with arthritis, an arthritic dog's mobility is as well impaired because of muscle pains and sore joints. Although dogs cannot speak about how they feel a discerning owner will know that the pet is not well. Moreover, the impaired mobility would also be a sign that the dog is suffering from the degenerative disease. Dog are highly energetic thus man's best friends would rather run than walk. A dog suffering from arthritis would limp; have difficulties in climbing stairs or getting up after lying down because of stiff joints. Often times the dog will have fever because of the pain.
The pet must be taken to a vet for proper management of the disease. Steroids and anti inflammatory drugs are effective in alleviating the pain however the side effects oftentimes cause another medical concern. Acupuncture and surgery are other options that a dog owner can take to lessen the discomfort of the pet.
To help the pet an owner has to give the pet more TLC. The dog may refuse to move but exercise is necessary to maintain mobility. The pet is in pain and the best thing a dog owner can do is to ensure that the pet is comfortable. Provide the pet with an orthopedic bed but if none is available a well padded bed that is raised about one foot from the floor would lessen the dog's discomfort. Massage is proven effective in reducing the discomfort of arthritic people thus a massage will be good for your pet too. It is a good opportunity to bond with the pet as well.
About the Author:
Sarah's Dogs has more answers to questions about dog arthritis as well as information about first aid for dogs.
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