Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes
Watching your beloved dog get older can be one of the toughest experiences as an owner, especially if they are unfortunate enough to live out their later years suffering from joint pain. Whilst it is true that joint deterioration is part of the aging process, what many owners don’t know is that with the right plan in place - this can be a far less painful experience for both you and your pup.
So, regardless of whether your pup already has joint pain or is just generally older and has yet to experience any issues, it’s important that you as a pet owner take action – now.
Here at Petlab Co., we’ve developed a comprehensive guide to ensure that your pooch has the best possible chance of improving an existing joint condition, or preventing one from developing one in the future…
Looking for natural remedies for joint pain in dogs? Well, one of the most common misconceptions about caring for aging dogs is that exercise should stop becoming a key part of their lives.
The truth is, as a dog ages, it’s more important than ever that they keep active! You see, older dogs are at higher risk of becoming obese, developing heart problems and experiencing some form of degenerative joint disease, and exercise is the perfect way to help fight these issues off.
Specifically with regards to joint health, frequent exercise helps lubricate joints and limit stiffness, which means a more active, happier dog – all life long.
That being said, it’s very important you know what type of exercise an older dog can do. Given that they will be less active, we’ve identified a few exercises that will give them a great workout without creating any unnecessary strain on their body. Here are a few suggestions:
One of the most important changes owners need to make in their elderly four-legged friends is represented by diet. Most older dogs already have reduced mobility, so lugging around any extra weight is only going to make their lives more difficult. Certain breeds may not show their added pounds as easily, so make sure to check with a vet for an official weigh-in.
You can also check in with their weight using our easy Petlab Co. Body Condition Assessor…
Simply place your palms on either side of your pup’s chest and lightly press down to check if you can feel their ribs. This area is where they accumulate fat. You should be able to feel their ribs upon light palpitation using your hands.
Petlab Co. Pro Tip: If your dog is in the overweight category, simply reduce their food allowance by 10% until they reach their ideal body weight. They’ll barely notice the difference!
As well as controlling their weight, diet can also play an important role in how quickly they recover from pain, and keep their joints lubricated and strengthened with the right nutrients.
The easiest and most rewarding action an owner can take for their pet’s benefit is introducing a supplement to their diet. Choosing a supplement made from natural ingredients is crucial, as you wouldn’t want to expose your dog to harmful chemicals, so for aging dogs, choose 100% natural ingredients formulated by a reputable pet brand, and make sure they contain glucosamine; a well-known aid for painful joints.
What Ingredients Really Help Your Dog’s Joint Pain?
Petlab Co. Pro Tip: Dogs are creatures of habit, and they can be trained to recognize certain actions as a scheduled event. Offer your pet your specialist doggy joint supplement right before or after an activity they like (such as playtime or a walk), and they will associate the chews with an exciting time of their day!
One of the most overlooked factors in improving an older dog's joints is their environment! Have a think about everything physically around them – does it all work together to maximize their mobility and improve their joint health? When asked that question, many owners will discover they need to make some changes around the house. Here are a few areas that you can improve to give your dog the best possible chance of an active, joint-pain free future:
Taking care of a senior dog requires extra time and attention! When dogs get older, they tend to experience behavioral changes, become more irritable, or lose the ability to do the things they used to love. Remember to show your elderly pet some love and attention by petting them more often, talking to them, and relaxing together.
Dog massages are a lesser known way of both interacting with your dog while also providing it with pain relief. While there are professional dog therapists who are trained in the art of pet massaging, a better way to bond with your dog is to learn some tips and tricks yourself, and offer your canine buddy a relaxing massage to alleviate its pain, and increase their circulation, flexibility, and overall well being.
9 Life Changing Benefits To Giving Your Dog A Massage
Look, we get it – you’re really busy, and are wondering how you’re going to find time to implement the above. Here’s the thing though: your dog’s health won’t wait for you! The #1 regret amongst dog owners who’ve had a pup pass away was not taking enough care of their joints – and we don’t want you to have that same regret!
Take action right now! Work on each of the four points above as a matter of priority, and when all is said and done, you’ll look back fondly on your dog's journey, and know you did everything you could to give them an active, happy rest of their life.
Meet Our Petlab Co. Joint Care Heroes
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Writer, blogger and crazy cat lady - I'm at my happiest when writing away with my sidekick, Milo, at my feet. When I'm not researching and writing about the latest pet health tips, you can find me out running with my parent's dog, or curled up with a good book!
