It is tough to take care of a dog that has arthritis. This is especially true since there are various misconceptions that are seen as realities and that you should never actually believe. For instance, it was common practice to give aspirin to a dog that was suffering from arthritis. New studies showcased the fact that this is bad and you should never actually give aspirin to your dog.
Getting back to the subject at hand, you can help the dog that suffers from arthritis without the use of prescription medication. However, it is recommended to at least go to the veterinarian so that the dog can be properly checked up. This includes bloodwork and other tests. The tests are important as they will highlight whether or not the dog can take some NSAIDs. Sometimes you need some pain management pills so that his life would be better.
Dog Weight Management
Many of the dogs that are seen by a veterinarian are obese and overweight. What many do not understand is that there is a connection between arthritis and fat. If the dog has too much excess weight, it will be tough for the pet to move. There are many situations in which getting the dog to the proper weight is enough to manage arthritis. It is always important that an ideal body weight is maintained. This will increase the lifespan of any pet, including dogs with arthritis.
Living Conditions
Try to make day to day activities simpler for the dog. For instance, the ZEIPET luxury pets line is made out of dog beds that are very comfortable. Choose a dog bed based on the size of the dog and make all other modifications in the home so that he does not have to jump too much or get over obstacles like stairs when going from one place to the other.
Using Natural Boosters
Most people do not believe in this but you will be surprised to see how beneficial nutraceuticals can be. In our case, you should consider minor changes in the dog’s nutrition by adding omega fatty acids, chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. The veterinarian can tell you what the adequate dosage is for your dog and you will be happy to hear that they are really easy to find while also being competitively priced. Alternatively, look for dog food that includes these ingredients.
Once Again, NSAIDs
Prescription medication is something that you want to avoid and that is totally understandable. However, we need to think about the well-being of the dog and should stay focused on avoiding them as much as possible and not necessarily at all times. NSAIDs do not have risks if you use the guidelines recommended by your veterinarian.
Dogs are in many ways similar to humans and this is just another situation that highlights that. When we have arthritis, pain management is sometimes only possible with the use of painkillers. Think about NSAIDs as painkillers for dogs in this case. When an arthritis attack appears, having such medication in your home is a great way to make the pet’s live happier. Just make sure that you talk to the vet about that.
