Most people often associate dog arthritis with senior canines or certain breeds, and they don’t consider its possibility to younger ones. However, this is not true, as dogs of any age and breed are susceptible to arthritis. This is why it’s essential to derail and prevent the effects of dog arthritis, even in your pet’s puppyhood.
While dog arthritis can’t be reversed, it can be prevented. Please keep reading to see how you can be proactive against the mentioned pet condition and protect your pet from it.
How to Prevent Dog Arthritis
Dog arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is common in older dogs but can also affect pups regardless of age. Like how humans with arthritis feel, the exact condition is excruciating for dogs. However, your dog doesn’t have to go through all that pain when you can prevent it in the first place. So below are five dog arthritis prevention tips to keep your pet from going through that painful experience.
1. Keep their weight in check
According to most experts, dogs with a lean body and good nutrition are important factors for preventing the development of arthritis. Excess weight can aggravate joint problems as it puts more pressure on their joints and bones. Moreover, obesity is linked to greater inflammation of a dog’s entire body and even puts them at risk of many life-threatening health issues.
But if your dog is already a victim of arthritis or any joint problems before you could prevent it, considering veterinary acupuncture for healing any joint issues is an effective and reliable option to ease the condition.
2. Address injuries immediately
Veterinarians recommend treating any suspected injuries immediately to prevent possible joint problems from developing as your pet ages. Dogs that suffer fractures from accidents like being hit by cars or through physical activities may need forced rest, special treatment, or soft tissue surgery for pets to heal correctly and healthily.
3. Feed a balanced diet
Consistently feeding your puppy a high-quality diet helps ensure proper nutrition. If in doubt and unsure of what diet is recommended for your pet’s breed, age, and activity level, always consult your vet. Feeding your pet the vet-recommended foods can prevent them from growing too rapidly. Rapid growth spurts often lead to early joint problems.
Along with providing your dog with the perfect and balanced diet, consistently taking them to the vet clinic for their vaccinations and parasite prevention can help them stay healthy and away from prevalent pet conditions. You may visit this link to learn more about essential pet preventative care.
4. Exercise the right way
Dogs need exercise, but the right amount and kind of exercise can ensure proper bone growth. Running too much on hard surfaces can affect hip joints and impact bone growth if they’re loose. Consider exposing your dog to swimming as it’s an activity that is easy and healthy for the joints.
5. Give them supplements
Some studies proved that certain joint-supporting supplements for dogs could help boost your pet’s joint health and restore lost cartilage, which can hold back the symptoms of dog arthritis. You may give your dog supplements that have glucosamine, chondroitin, and fish oil but ask for the vet-recommended choices and brand.
Even if you don’t see any signs of arthritis in your dog, giving them these supplements can help support and improve their joint health and even slow down or prevent the onset of the said condition.
