Friday, January 11, 2013

How to Treat Dog Joint Pain

By Geraldine Dimarco


Does your dog seem like he's having difficulty shifting from one position to another? Is he unusually lazy, or is he flinching when you attempt to touch him? If so, then it might be that he is experiencing canine arthritis. Discover more on what can be done to alleviate his dog joint pain when you read through this informative article.

Human arthritis is similar to its canine counterpart. It is usually acquired through old age-wherein the years of the dog's active, and sometimes careless, lifestyle has caught up with him. Younger dogs sometimes become arthritic when they have sustained a blow in their legs. Sometimes it is also because they have skeletal deformities that led them to a kind of arthritis.

While arthritis is by no means fatal in nature, it can prove to be extremely uncomfortable to the poor dog. If you have the opportunity to still do something about it, do not overfeed your dog or engage him in extreme sports like Frisbee. These put tremendous pressure on their joints which will be bad for them in the future. If they already are in the throes of this condition do not worry-you can still avail of an effective dog arthritis treatment to help your dog maintain a relatively good quality of life.

Before you proceed in anything-it is important that you know what it is that your dog is actually suffering from. You may not know it but some symptoms of arthritis are the same with some other canine diseases. Visit a reliable veterinarian and have your pet checked thoroughly to find out his correct diagnosis. Expect the vet to take some tests like blood test, radiographs, etc.

If your dog does have arthritis, then he will most likely be prescribed a NSAID or non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug. These medications are taken with a fluid modifier, or another supplement aimed to treat the painful effects of arthritis as well as impede its progression. NSAIDs are safe for the most part but as with all medications, there are occasions wherein a particular animal's body does not react well with it.

You may also make use of a natural dog arthritis treatment to deal with the degenerative and painful effects of arthritis. Herbs like stinging nettles, alfalfa and yucca help in detoxification of the circulatory system, strengthening of the joints, and relief from pain caused by inflamed joints. Enhance the animal's immune system with vitamins C and E, as well as fatty acids for his best health.

Remember, even if it is harmful to engage the animal in activity that is too extreme in nature, it is essential that he continues to exercise regularly. This ensures the maintenance of his ideal weight; and furthermore encourages lubrication in the joints and tissues. For more immediate relief from dog joint pain, get a bottle of his favorite aromatic oil, or olive oil and massage him to release tension and stress.

It's a great thing to have your best friend healthy and happy waiting for you at home. Give him the best care you know how and enjoy many more happy years ahead!




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