Arthritis in dogs causes pain which leads to the sometimes subtle and sometimes quite obvious symptoms of arthritis. Once your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, you and your veterinarian will be able to formulate an acceptable treatment plan to help your dog comfortable and free of pain. But there are many simple things you can do at home to help your dog as well.
Give Your Arthritic Dog a Comfortable Place to Sleep
A comfortable, well padded bed can go a long way towards making your dog comfortable and easing some of the pressure on his joints. Make sure your dog has nice thick towels, blankets or cushions on which to rest.
Some arthritic dogs might appreciate a heated bed as well. Heated beds are readily available and can help ease the pain in arthritic joints. However, care should be taken if you are using a heating pad for your dog to avoid burning your dog's skin.
Make It Easy for Your Arthritic Dog to Get Around Your Home and Yard
Dogs with arthritis often have difficulty navigating stairs. Providing ramps can make it easier for your arthritic dog to move about your home and yard comfortably without the need to climb stairs.
In addition, ramps can also allow access to furniture that your arthritic dog can no longer access without help. This can make life easier and more comfortable for your pet if he is allowed on furniture but is unable to get onto and off of the furniture by himself.
Ramps are also great for helping larger dogs to get into and out of the car as needed. While smaller dogs can be picked up and placed in the car, it is often difficult to lift a large dog and place him in the car. With a ramp, your dog can walk into the car and the ramp can be safely stored in your trunk until it is needed again to allow your dog to leave the car.
Make Food and Water More Accessible to Your Arthritic Dog
If your dog is suffering from arthritis in his neck or front legs, it may be difficult or painful for him to put his head down to reach his food and water dishes on the floor. This may result in reluctance on your dog's part to eat or drink normally. Elevating the food and water dishes will allow your dog to access these items without bending his neck or front legs into an uncomfortable position.
Maintain Your Arthritic Dog's Weight at an Ideal Level
Maintaining your dog at his ideal body condition can be useful in controlling the level of pain experienced with arthritis. Fat cells secrete hormones that contribute to pain, making arthritis even more severe for overweight dogs. Avoid overfeeding your arthritic dog and encourage exercise. If your dog is already overweight, talk with your veterinarian about starting a weight control program to help him return to his ideal body weight and body condition.
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