Arthritis is common in older dogs but it can still come as an unpleasant surprise to many dog owners. The last thing you want for your loyal companion is to feel pain or discomfort while doing the things he loves. Dogs give so much to their families that it’s only fair to give as much as possible back.
Fortunately, there are a few ways you can help relieve the symptoms of arthritis at home. If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, you can help him out by making a plan with the following tips.
Heat
Just like us humans, dogs can feel relief from pain by using heat. However, you may need to use heat differently when treating your dog. Dogs often respond best to wet heat because it allows the heat to be absorbed by tissue. Heat will encourage good blood flow which aids in pain relief.
To treat your companion with heat, soak a clean cloth in hot water for a few minutes. Allow it to cool slightly and wring it before placing it on your dog’s joints. You may want to test it on your own skin before applying it and remove it immediately if your dog shows any signs of pain.
Chiropractor
You may not have associated chiropractors with dogs before but it’s a wonderful treatment for canines that can provide much relief. In addition to providing pain relief, it can also help your dog to get the most out of life. Dogs love to walk but having arthritis can mean they aren’t able to walk as far or as often.
A chiropractor could help your dog to enjoy walks for longer without feeling pain during or after. Search for a chiropractor near me and find out the many benefits for your dog.
Diet
What your dog eats could have a big impact on how arthritis affects him. If your dog is overweight, it can lead to more pain because there is more pressure on his joints. The right nutrients play a big part in helping your dog be as healthy as possible.
Look at balanced and varied diets for your dog and ask for recommendations from your vet. Your vet can also offer advice on helping your dog to lose weight safely and comfortably.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a fantastic treatment for arthritis and it can help dogs to lose weight. Exercising in water is less painful than regular exercise because the water can carry the weight of the dog. Ironically, exercising joints can loosen them and relieve pain but you may notice your dog in some discomfort when you go for regular walks.
Exercising in water also allows relief because of the warm temperature. If your dog is swimming in the water, the action of concentrating on swimming can be a great distraction from any discomfort.
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