According to studies, dogs over seven years old have a 20% risk of having arthritis. It is a fairly common condition and since dogs can’t tell you that they have discomfort and pain, arthritis can often go untreated. An experienced dog Behaviourist can help you determine if something is bothering your dog.
Active Therapies For Treating Canine Arthritis
Arthritis destroys cartilage tissue, which compromises motions of affected joints. Cartilage and joint fluids are a lubrication system that ensures smooth movement. Your vet can give your dog painkillers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to ease their discomfort. However, these drugs don’t treat the condition. Weight management is essential to reducing the load on their joints. Active therapies can strengthen muscles, improve weight bearing and enhance balance.
Here Are Effective Active Treatments for Dogs with Arthritis:
Assisted Walking- assisted walking is a low-cost therapy for dogs that have problems moving or walking. This doesn’t require any exercise equipment. Slowly walk your dog on a flat surface and, if possible, walk your dog at least once a day. Increase the exercise intensity or lead your dog to walk uphill when his condition improves.
Aquatic Therapy- aquatic therapy is an underwater treadmill exercise and the fluidic environment helps dogs in two ways. Buoyancy displaces nearly half of your dog’s bodyweight and reduces strain on his joints. Water provides extra resistance compared to air, which helps to strengthen their muscles faster. During the aquatic therapy, your dog will lengthen his stride. It is also helpful to use warm water which will improve blood flow to muscles and joints, as well as alleviating pain. A dog trainer can help create a good exercise routine for your dog.
Dry Treadmill- an aquatic treadmill can be combined with dry treadmill sessions as well. Despite the absence of water, a dry treadmill is also useful for your dog. If his muscles have become stronger and he is less affected by pain, a dry treadmill can help during to further improve muscle and joints. It is recommended to use a treadmill designed specifically for dogs.
Contact Dog Harmony
To learn more ways to treat arthritis in dogs, contact Dog Harmony today and speak to an expert dog trainer who can help train your dog to be easier to manage and a lot more fun.
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