Watching our best friends age can be bittersweet. An older dog will have lots more time to snuggle up on the couch with you. But along with his calmer personality comes other changes. You might notice your dog limping, or having issues standing and moving. Especially after he wakes up in the morning. Joint pain and stiffness is common in older dogs, but there’s no reason to feel powerless when you see your dog in pain.
First and foremost – see your veterinarian to determine your dog limping is not a sign of a more serious disease, and not simply a sign of normal aging. Here are 3 things you can do to help him relieve the aches and pains of aging, and feel a bit like a younger pup again!
1. Low-Impact Exercise
Aside from helping your dog lose weight, some gentle exercise can help relieve your dog limping and keep his joints moving freely! Your dog will happily run and play until he wears himself out or injures himself. It’s up to you to limit playtime for the sake of his joints. Activities that involve jumping, like playing catch, can cause even more pain for your dog’s joints, so try to stick to more low-impact exercises, like walking or swimming, if your dog likes water.
2. Maintain A Healthy Weight
If your pup has packed on a little more weight, those extra pounds could cause unnecessary strain on his joints. Losing weight could relieve some of his stiffness and pain, and give him more energy and a longer life. Changing his diet and getting in some of that gentle exercise mentioned will help shed excess pounds. It can also relieve joint pain, stiffness, and just give him an overall better quality of life. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s weight and joints before changing his diet.
3. Joint Supplements
A supplement known to help with joint issues is a nearly effortless way to relieve your dog’s joint pain. Omega-3 fatty acids, found naturally in fish, and are relied on by millions of people around the world to help relieve joint pain and stiffness – for themselves and their dogs! Supplements, especially those that contain Glucosamine and Chondroitin can go a long way to helping your dog feel less pain and a little more limber. Happy, Healthy Advanced Hip & Joint soft chews for dogs also contain Tumeric, which can decrease inflammation, reducing pain in your dog’s joints.
(Source: Links Veterinary Group)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
