Arthritis Pain Relief for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs are also affected by arthritis which is a crippling disease of age. Arthritis in dogs is no different than that seen in humans. As a dog owner, it can be pretty heart breaking to see your once playful pet struggle to get up or sit. Some dog breeds are more susceptible to arthritis, namely, large and medium breeds like German shepherd, Golden retrievers, Rottweilers, Collies and Kelpies. Although old age is the primary factor, the key to pain relief for dogs is early care. So it is imperative that you identify the symptoms in time as often, the early signs can be confused with some other condition, but if your pet is old, don't ignore any sign of limping as a minor play injury. If your dog is resisting your touch, take this as the first warning sign of arthritis in your dog.

Symptoms

Physical Symptoms: To start with, one needs to watch out for symptoms of arthritis in dogs. You will notice that your dog is facing difficulty in sitting or standing. He will also limp on a regular basis and will be reluctant to get up and play. Along with this, an increased stiffness will also be seen. This in turn will lead to lethargy and increase in weight.

Behavioral Changes: You will also notice a change in the dog's behavior and attitude, and he may appear to be moody or snappy. Due to acute pain, the dog will exhibit signs of pain even at the slightest touch. Therefore yelping or crying, especially at night is very common.

Pain Relief

Home Remedy: Before starting with arthritis treatment for dogs, identify the symptoms and try to tackle them. For instance, if your dog is overweight, change his diet to help him lose weight. Less weight will mean that the dog will find it easier to carry his body weight around. A low fat and low carbohydrate diet is advised. Make the dogs diet nutritious, increase his calcium intake, include milk and eggs etc. The aim is to help him internally combat the pain. Pain relief will begin with a strong immune system, as any other illness will only increase the discomfort and worsen the dog's condition. Visit a veterinarian and ask him to provide specific painkillers to reduce arthritis pain and swelling. Be regular with the medications, and do not give your grandparent's medication to the dog! Regular and proper exercise is the key to prevent obesity and arthritis in dogs. Spend time with your pet, show him compassion, as this will help him deal with the mental trauma.

Medication: The most common pain relievers for dogs are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID). These help reduce swelling and bring about significant arthritis pain relief. Some of the arthritis pain medication for dogs are Pentosan, Rimadyl, Cartrophen, Metacam, Zubrin, Etogesic, Previcox, Deramaxx and Cu-Algesic.

Supplements: There are certain supplements that you can provide your canine with, to help in tissue building. Pain Supplements are Glucosamine, Chondroitin sulfate, Vitamin C, D and E, fish oil as it contains Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin B complex.

Aftercare

Arthritis pain relief for dogs begins at home, when you know your pet is in pain, even though he can't express it. The best thing one can do is, look after the dog with love. Help him make the journey through this pain. This doesn't mean you drastically change your pet's lifestyle, but that health should be the top priority. Do take him for a walk, let the dog walk at his own pace. Avoid playing games like 'fetch' that require sudden movements. Low impact activities like swimming are advised. Exercise is a must to prevent arthritis and to make bones stronger. The medication given to the dog can cause several side effects like vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy, so good care is very important. Ask your veterinarian to brief you, especially about kidney and liver damage. Keep your dog as comfortable as possible. Provide him a soft, warm bed, as cold weather can increase the pain. Keep your dog's water and food bowl at a comfortable height, so that it is easy for him to eat and drink from it. Be aware that your dog will be slower when it comes to walking or climbing stairs, so don't push him into doing any strenuous activity.

This can be a difficult time for both, you and your pet. Good care can help your pet deal with the pain. Don't forget to give him moral support through your love and care. So spend time with your dog, and together you can get past this.