As dogs age, joint problems can interfere with daily activities. Arthritis will make the stairs seem steeper, the car look higher and your regular walks feel longer. Dogs are living longer than ever before, logging hundreds of miles on those aging limbs. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to strengthen, protect and soothe your dog's joints no matter what their age or condition.
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Diet and Exercise
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Keep your dog at a healthy weight. To determine your dog's fitness level, feel her ribs. You should be able to feel individual ribs with a light flesh cover. If you can see your dog's ribs, she is too thin. If you can't locate any ribs, your dog needs to shed a few pounds.
There are diet dog foods available, but most overweight dogs are just overfed dogs. Read the label on your dog food bag and measure carefully. To improve metabolism, feed your dog twice a day. To avoid over feeding or double feeding, put the day's rations in a resealable bag or storage container.
Don't forget that biscuits, stolen cat food and table scraps count towards your dog's daily caloric intake. Raise the cat bowls if you can and break treats into smaller pieces.
Exercise helps burn calories and it keeps muscles and joints limber. Low-impact activities like leash walking and swimming are best. Moderate daily exercise is recommended; the "weekend warrior" approach to dog fitness may cause more damage than it prevents.
Joint Health Supplements
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Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements protect and rebuild joint tissue. Glucosamine helps the body produce new cartilage and chondroitin prevents further breakdown of cartilage. Supplements may contain other beneficial ingredients such as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), hyaluronic acid and green-lipped mussel extract. There are dog-specific formulations, but it is safe to share your joint supplements with your pet.
Fish oil, also known as EFAs or essential fatty acids, reduces inflammation. In addition, fish oils improve the skin and coat and may offer cardiovascular benefits.
Prescription NSAIDs
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Prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the production of prostaglandins, the hormone responsible for inflammation and pain. Your veterinarian may prescribe carprofen, meloxicam, deracoxib or similar anti-inflammatories.
This class of drugs is associated with side effects that you should discuss with your veterinarian. According to the FDA, "Veterinary NSAIDS may be associated with gastrointestinal ulcers/perforations, liver and kidney toxicity." If your dog has liver, kidney or heart problems, use NSAIDs with caution.
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