Dog arthritis can cause your dog’s quality of life to deteriorate. However, there are a number of strategies you can implement within the home to keep him or her comfortable for as long as possible, even when suffering from dog arthritis.

Some suggestions for improving quality of life for a dog with dog arthritis:

• • Padded Bed
    One of the first steps in improving your stiff dog’s life is to provide a bed with extra padding.  Under no circumstance should your dog have to rest on a hard floor, which will only further make his or her bones ache.  Specialty dog beds for arthritis sufferers can be purchased from pet stores.
  • Elevated Water Dishes
    As your dog’s pain increases, his or her ability to eat and drink water comfortably may diminish.  Elevating food and water dishes can improve comfort during meal time.  As a word of caution, some veterinarians believe that elevated dishes can promote bloat, so only use this method if your pet is not prone to inhaling food or water.
  • Extra Water Dishes
    While we’re on the topic of water dishes, also be sure to provide multiple bowls around the house so that your dog does not have to travel far to hydrate him or herself.
  • Ramps
    If steps are a necessary part of your dog’s day, consider building a ramp to help him go to and from the house for potty breaks.
  • Step Stools
    Help your dog maintain a sense of normalcy and purchase a specially designed step stool that will help him or her still be able to climb onto the couch, bed, or car.
  • Towel or Strap under Hips
    If a ramp or step stool is not an option invest in a specialized harness that will help you lift your dog so that he or she can more easily climb steps.  Alternatively you can place a thick towel underneath your dog’s hindquarters while holding each end of the towel which will also help take pressure off his or her joints while climbing steps and reduce pain.
  • Pain Medication
    Ask your veterinarian about dosages for over the counter pain medication that will relieve your dog’s aches.  While some pet owners worry about potential side effects, the benefit of pain relievers far outweighs the potential negative reaction.
  • Swimming
    Swimming is a great exercise that improves your dog’s mobility and strength while decreasing pain.  If your dog is not a fan of swimming or there is no body of water nearby, look into a local canine hydrotherapy provider.
  • Massage
    Canine massage therapists can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility in your pet’s joints.  As an added benefit, your pet’s stress levels will be reduced, which will improve his or her happiness.
  • Physical Therapy
    A canine physical therapist can work with your dog to gain functional strength in his or her joints to mitigate the effects of arthritis.
  • Chiropractor
    Canine chiropractors can work wonders in arthritic dogs by providing pain relief, adjustments, and physical therapy-type exercises.  Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation to a trusted practitioner.
  • Stem Cell Therapy
    If you’re looking for a way to give your dog long-lasting pain relief, stem cell therapy is a great option. At Stem Cell Vet, this happens in a minimally invasive and simple 2-step process. You can expect to see an improvement in your dog within 12 weeks, and often before then.

Contact Stem Cell Vet today for more info:

If you need help with your dog’s arthritis, please contact Stem Cell Vet today. Our experienced vets can advise you on a tailored treatment plan unique to your dog.

Just like you, we want to ensure that your dog’s quality of life is maintained, whether they have arthritis or joint related conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia. Contact us at 0808 281 2455 or enquiry@stemcellvet.co.uk to book your free consultation.

Download the free eBook: Healing Your Dog’s Arthritis: The Stem Cell Therapy Guide

Image credit: Creative commons Precision.