MANAGE YOUR FURRY FRIEND’S ARTHRITIS

Is your dog geŠing older and starting to slow down with joint pain, stiffness and arthritis? Arthritis causes pain and inflammation of joints through the body. Fortunately, early and accurate diagnosis and correct treatment can help manage this debilitating disease.

DEVELOP A PLAN

First, develop a treatment plan with your vet. This may include medication, surgery, pain relief and a review of your dog’s environment (bedding, shelter etc) and lifestyle (exercise, nutrition, weight etc). Maintain your dog’s weight with regular moderate exercise, without wearing out the joints.

SUPPORT FOR JOINTS

Feed your dog a joint-healthy diet, balanced with ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and omega 3, as well as green-lipped mussels, vitamin C, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and manganese. Further consider joint-support products such as Vetalogica’s Canine Joint Support, Sasha’s Blend, Joint Guard and Blackmore’s Paw Osteocare. You can also treat your pooch to Lovebites Flexjoint Chews – sit, stay, good dog! – while Rose-hip Vital® Canine is proven to reduce inflammation, protect cartilage and boost immunity.

alternative therapies Discuss holistic procedures with your vet – things such as acupuncture, physiotherapy, chiropractic, hydrotherapy and massage. Or, consider advanced complementary treatments such as stem cell therapy. As a final note, be sure to provide well-padded bedding away from cold and draughts.