Do you remember when you first brought your new friend home?
So full of life, your new addition was bounding around like…a puppy. But as years pass, we all slow down a little, and your companion is no different.
Maybe you first noticed your dog not running to greet you as you walked in the door after a long day away. Or perhaps it was a whimper while getting up or chasing his favorite ball. This could be a sign of canine arthritis.
Canine arthritis is more common in large breeds, but it also affects dogs of all sizes and shapes. Arthritis is caused when the smooth covering over bones, known as cartilage, begins to break down. The bones begin to rub at the joint where they come together, causing pain and discomfort because the protective layer either is worn down or no longer exists.
When this starts to happen, you may notice some of these common signs and symptoms:
- Decreased interest in walking, running, playing
- Whimpering and yelping with movement
- Difficulty rising from a resting position
- Reduced movement in joints or limping
- Falling behind on walks
- Personality changes, such as lethargy or aggression
Once the symptoms of canine arthritis set in, there is no cure and cartilage damage can begin to occur long before you notice any signs. Once you’ve noticed a change, you can help to ease the pain and improve comfort levels. However, long before your dog even begins to show signs, you can take steps to ensure that your companion lives and long, healthy and happy life.
Frequent exercise is great for your dog. That’s a no-brainer. Not only is it excellent for your pet, but it’s also helpful to your personal well being. So go out and enjoy some fresh air…run, walk, throw a ball. You and your companion will value spending time together.
Keeping your dog active not only promotes healthy bones and joints, it will also help your dog maintain a healthy weight. When animals carry excess weight, it causes additional strain on bones and joints, which in turn can cause premature and accelerated reduction of cartilage.
In addition to exercise, a healthy diet also helps your dog maintain a proper weight. Sometimes, however, exercise and diet just aren’t enough. Much like humans that take multivitamins and various supplements, your dog may benefit from taking something to help with general health.
One of the most common supplements recommended by veterinarians today is glucosamine with chondroitin. Glucosamine, one of the main building blocks of cartilage, promotes lubricant in synovial fluid found in the joints. Supplementing the availability of glucosamine aids the body in the manufacturing and maintenance of cartilage, which can help reduce your pet’s arthritis symptoms.
One of the most popular supplements on the market today (and the one we use here at iHeartDogs) is Z-Flex Max Hip and Joint Support by Healthy Breeds. Using veterinarian quality ingredients, Healthy Breeds has produced a high quality product that’s reasonably priced. It also contains a natural anti-inflammatory that provides dietary sulfur necessary for collagen production, which helps form bones, tendons and connective tissue. One of the things we love most about this particular brand is their passionate support of animal shelters. For every chew sold, they donate an equal number of chews to an animal shelter!
Remember, your vet is your best resource when it comes to diagnosing possible joint pain problems with your dog. Be sure to discuss any signs of distress you see early and often. In addition, always discuss any new supplementation routine with your vet as well.
To learn more about supplementing your dog’s health, take the next step. Check out Healthy Breeds and do all that you can to ensure the health of your dog. Making a change today could make a world of difference tomorrow.
iHeartDogs.com has an affiliate relationship with HealthyBreeds.com.
