Natural Treatment for Arthritis in Senior Dogs

Arthritis (osteoarthritis)is one of the most common conditions to impact senior dogs, especially larger senior dogs. Arthritis is a condition that results when the water content in cartilige is diminihed, due to a reduced proteoglycan (a type of protein with a sugar molecular chain) content that makes the cartilige between the joints less resilient. Some of the warning signs of this condition are difficulty rising or going up stairs, a reluctancy to go on walks, swollen and tender joints, stiffness upon awakening with progressive ease as the day goes on, and pain upon palpitation of the joint(s), to name a few. What does one do for a dog experiencing these symptoms?

Well, this is a site on all natural pet care and of course, I am going to address natural treatments for these common ailments. There are, however, pharmaceuticals out there that treat arthritis, but the outcomes are mixed at best, deadly at worst. If you would like to read further on the subject of pharmaceuticals to treat canine arthritis, click here.

As to natural treatment for arthritis in senior dogs, there are several good ones that will alleviate pain and increase your dog's comfort level in day to day activities.

The first approach to arthritis is preventing its onset for as long as possible. You can do this by making certain to maintain a healthy weight for your dog as he ages. Obesity is a major contributor to arthritis in dogs, just as it is in people.

The second approach to arthritis in your dog is exercise. Your dog was born to be active and though he may be slowing down a bit with age, it is still important to maintain activity by walking, or if your dog is stiff and sore, by swimming. Swimming is excellent exercise for both dogs and people who suffer from arthritis and most dogs are very comfortable swimming. After a swim, make sure that the ears are dried well to avoid ear infection.

Natural treatment for arthritis in the senior dog is based on supplementation. Glucosamine is is very effective and one of the best for dogs is actually marketed for horses. Cosequine by Nutramax Laboratories is a powder concentrate that is flavorless and mixed into food-a huge bonus if your dog hates pills. (The company makes a supplement for dogs, but the horse formula is the same-only less expensive. You will need to consult your vet for the appropriate dose for your dog, according to weight.)

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