How to Relieve Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis is a very common condition among dogs. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints that would provoke stiffness and pain of the areas affected. It usually happens to dogs over 8 years old and it will degenerate over time. Some medicines prescribed by your veterinarian would relieve the symptoms, but there are a few other ways to relief the pain.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash Swimming pool Fish oil Boswellia Glucosamine

Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Check for symptoms confirming that your dog has arthritis, such as trouble getting up, climbing stairs, standing on back legs and stiffness.

    • 2

      Take your dog to the veterinarian to run some tests to determine the type of arthritis the dog suffers from. This will also determine the type of treatment that will follow. Choose a holistic veterinarian to guide you through natural treatments for your dog.

    • 3

      Avoid having your dog in damp and cold places that will bring on symptoms associated with arthritis.

    • 4

      Give your dog a gentle massage, preferably first thing in the morning, with your fingers on the affected areas. This will help relieve some of the stiffness as well as increase blood circulation after lying still through the night.

    • 5

      Feed your dog a balanced diet to prevent weight gain. Excess weight will add to more pain and pressure on the joints.

    • 6

      Exercising moderately is not just a fun activity for your dog, but it is also helpful in controlling weight gain. Stretching, walking and swimming are gentle exercises that will help your dog stay active and prevent muscle loss.

    Treatments

    • 7

      Acupuncture is an option to increase blood circulation, and stimulate muscles and nerves to help keep the legs stronger.

    • 8

      Give natural herbs and anti-inflammatories such as devil's claw and boswellia to increase blood circulation. Also, fish oil containing Omega 3 and Omega 6 will reduce the inflammation of the joints.

    • 9

      Give your dog prescribed glucosamine, which will promote the release and absorbtion of water while producing protein to help slow down the disease.